Bonney Lake And Sumner Food Banks Announce Merger

BONNEY LAKE, WA — The Bonney Lake Food Bank and Sumner Community Food Bank have announced plans to merge, which they say will help them better serve those in need across East Pierce County.

According to the food banks, the merger has been under consideration for some time, and was unanimously approved by both of their boards after a recent, four-month evaluation. Leadership, staff and operations have already combined, but the rest of the merger will likely take a few months. When it's finished, both food banks will be helmed by Bonney Lake Food Bank's current CEO, Stacey Crnich.

“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.”

The food banks say that the demand for food in their region has increased more than 700% over the past year due to the coronavirus pandemic and the resulting economic fallout. They're hopeful that, by merging, they'll be able to streamline operations and better handle the massive need for food.

As Crnich told the Tacoma News Tribune, the Bonney Lake Food Bank is heavily reliant on community donations, while the Sumner Food Bank is supported by local businesses and organizations. Combining both revenue streams will help them expand, while keeping their current locations running as they are now. Proposed improvements include expanding their food deliver programs to reach even more community members, and a potential new resource center for needs outside of hunger.

"As a unified front, we are positioning ourselves for the year ahead...and beyond," wrote Crnich in a post announcing the merger on Facebook. "I’m honored to be part of these efforts in serving our community."