STRONGER TOGETHER: Bonney Lake and Sumner Food Banks Merge

(Bonney Lake, WA) – The Bonney Lake Food Bank and Sumner Community Food Bank are thrilled to  announce a merger agreement, bringing together two large food banks in East Pierce County. The  merger was approved unanimously by both boards after a four-month evaluation and due diligence  process. The legal forming of a new combined organization, led by current Bonney Lake Food Bank CEO  Stacey Crnich, is expected to take several months to complete, except for an immediate combination of  leadership, staff, and operations. 

“Regional effort, through the lens of dignity, equity, and access for all, is critical in our ability to meet the  needs of our growing community as food insecurity has reached an all-time high due to the covid-19  pandemic and economic fallout,” Crnich said. “I look forward to leading this newly formed organization  as we work with our community to end hunger and change the narrative surrounding this basic human  right.”  

Over the past year, both food banks have seen how vital access to nutritious food is to our communities.  With a 700% increase in demand due to the Covid-19 pandemic and related economic fallout, a merger will ensure sustainability by optimizing operations. A new shared vision and mission will provide a  cohesive message for the community that secures our purpose. The new combined organization will be  in a better position to share resources and ensure long-term financial sustainability. 

“Together we can achieve synergies benefitting our communities, customers, and donors,” Sumner Food  Bank board president John Rader said. “More importantly, we will have a greater impact in East Pierce  County by expanding into a resource center, enabling the food bank to better tackle food insecurity in  our communities.” 

Combining operations allows both organizations to expand their food delivery footprint, optimize  operations, and share programs, while also ensuring that dignity, access, and equity are at the forefront  for those served. Both food banks believe they are stronger together as they focus on those in our  communities within East Pierce County who are struggling with hunger and food insecurity.  

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Bonney Lake Food Bank and Sumner Community Food Bank are 501c3 non-profit charitable  organizations providing food and support to neighbors facing food insecurity in East Pierce County.  

For additional information about this topic, please contact Stacey Crnich, at  stacey@bonneylakefoodbank.org