In the farthest reaches of Jackson County, food is available to those in need. Access has many programs to help families, but according to the program director, Gracie Perry, “the most utilized and largest are the food pantries and Jackson County’s Food Bank.” There are currently 34 physical locations from which food is distributed. This program continues to grow with support from the community. 

Access has recently moved their food storage and distribution center to a warehouse in Medford, Oregon, where trucks are packed with pallets of food bags prepped by volunteers. Over a million pounds of food is saved from landfills every year with the Fresh Alliance Partners program. Food that will expire soon or is past its best-by date but still safe to consume is donated to Access to help feed locals. Grocery partners include Albertsons, Costco, Fred Meyer, The Grocery Outlet, Market of Choice, Natural Grocers, Ray’s Food Place, Safeway, Trader Joe’s, Walmart, and Winco Foods. Company donors include Sappo Hill Soap Company, Harry & David’s, and Amy’s Kitchen. The community can also donate food, and with every $1 donated, 3 meals are provided for those in need. 

There is also a separate food program for grade school students to receive free lunches, available to families who need support. The Rogue Power Pack Program serves more than 800 students across more than 30 schools in Jackson County. 

Access runs on volunteers. Every hour and $1 donated helps Jackson County stay strong and continue to grow. Join here to make a difference. Click here to receive help. Check out ACCESS on Facebook for current updates and shoutouts.