People can do a good deed and get into the Northwest Washington Fair for free in August by donating food to help local food banks, including the ones in Blaine and Point Roberts.
Sponsored by Brown & Brown Insurance of Lynden, the fourth annual Food Drive Friday runs 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Aug. 14 at Gates 1 and 5 at the Lynden fairgrounds.
Food banks are asking for canned proteins, fruits and vegetables, dry pinto beans, as well as pasta and rice.
Donations will go to the Whatcom County Food Bank Network, which includes the Bellingham, Blaine, Everson/Nooksack Valley, Ferndale, Foothills, Lummi Tribal, Nooksack Tribal, Point Roberts, Salvation Army and Project Hope food banks, according to organizers.
The drive has collected 16.7 tons, or 33,422 pounds, of food in the past three years.
“Many kind families and individuals brought more than four items. Since hunger is more challenging in summer months when there are fewer food drives, we’re asking people to plan now and again be generous with their donations,” said Alex Bogaard, president of the Seattle and Lynden offices of Brown & Brown Insurance Services, in a news release.
The effort comes at a time of increasing demand on food banks as residents struggle with the cost of living.
The Northwest Washington Fair, 1775 Front St., runs Aug. 13-22. Details are at nwwafair.com.
