The Hunger Prevention Fund, to combat food insecurity in south Deschutes County, kicked off in May 2023 and continued through March 2024. The campaign raised funds for local food pantries to help offset costs due to increased need and unparalleled food and fuel prices. SWRC gathered and distributed funds monthly to these organizations.

Three local nonprofits received a total of $30,892.  La Pine Community Kitchen was granted $15,446, Sunriver Care & Share Outreach got $7,723 and St. Vincent de Paul of La Pine received $7,723 during the campaign.

Among the factors that motivated the SRWC to focus on local food insecurity include:

• Groceries were about 11.3% higher in January 2023 than a year earlier
• Deschutes County has a food insecurity rate of almost 10%
• Reduction in SNAP benefits are increasing the number of people needing food assistance in south Deschutes County
• The La Pine Community Kitchen saw a 31% increase in pounds distributed and 25% increase in the number of children served in March 2023 over February 2023
• Cash donations to food banks are not going as far due to the increased food costs
• Food insecurity is considered a critical public health issue