Donate Here

Humble Beginnings

In 2003, founder Tom Iselin brought together a dedicated team of volunteers to tackle hunger in Blaine County. Operating on a shoestring budget, we initially collected and distributed food to families through community partners. Over time, we evolved into a choice-based food pantry in Bellevue, offering a dignified grocery experience for those in need.

Growing Dreams

By 2012, we had expanded significantly: three weekly food distributions, ten full-time staff members, and over one million pounds of food provided. Despite our efforts, the root causes of hunger persisted. In 2015, we conducted a thorough Community Food Assessment (CFA), revealing that while 17% of our community used our food pantry, 35% of Blaine County was food insecure or close to it. The primary barrier was stigma, and it became clear that food banks alone couldn't solve hunger.

To combat stigma and address hunger at its roots, we launched Bloom Community Farm and Bloom Truck in 2016. These initiatives provided happy, healthy spaces for community-building and stigma-free food assistance.

A Movement Takes Shape

In 2016, we broke ground on Bloom Farm and hit the road with Bloom Truck. By 2017, we introduced the Bloom Youth Project, Volunteer for Veggies, and a strengthened Summer Food Program. These initiatives complemented our traditional food support programs, creating a comprehensive solution to hunger in Blaine County. By the end of 2017, 19% of Blaine County's population engaged with our programs, growing, eating, and sharing healthy food.

Stronger Together

The year 2020 tested our resilience. As we prepared to open our Community Food Center, the COVID-19 pandemic struck. Our service numbers quadrupled, and we swiftly adapted by offering curbside food pantry services. Despite these challenges, we successfully moved into the Bloom Community Food Center in 2021, incorporating COVID safety measures.

Once social distancing and mask mandates were lifted, our vibrant Bloom campus came alive with street art, fresh produce, and community activities. In 2022, we resumed full operations, with volunteers leading cooking classes and enjoying meals in our cafe.

Addressing Root Causes

In 2022, we intensified our community organizing efforts. With record numbers of people seeking our services due to the affordable housing crisis, high grocery costs, childcare expenses, medical debt, and educational barriers, we knew we had to tackle these root causes.

We hired two full-time community organizers dedicated to empowering our community. They have been leading voter registration drives, advocating for equitable education, healthcare access, immigration justice, and affordable housing.

How to Donate

Your support can make a significant difference in our fight against hunger and its root causes. Here’s how you can contribute:

• Online Donation: Visit our website and click on the “Donate” button to make a secure online contribution.
• Mail a Check: Send a check payable to the Hunger Coalition of Hilton Head to our office address. (Check Payable to The Hunger Coalition: 110 Honeysuckle St. Bellevue, ID 83313)
• In-Kind Donations: Donate non-perishable food items, toiletries, or other essentials at our designated drop-off locations.
• Volunteer: Join our team of dedicated volunteers. Whether it’s sorting donations, helping at events, or assisting in our community garden, your time and skills are invaluable.

Explore our website for more details on how you can get involved and help us build a community where everyone has access to healthy, nutritious food.

Together, we can end hunger and build a stronger, more resilient community. Thank you for your support!