Lakewood PD's Fallen Officer Food Drive Begins Thursday

LAKEWOOD, WA — Lakewood Police are hoping the public will step up and give blood, food or money at their upcoming drive to honor fallen officers.

The Fallen Officer Food Drive will run from 6 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. this Thursday outside the police department.

Lakewood Police have been running the Fallen Officer Food Drive for 11 years now, but says this year is especially important because the coronavirus pandemic has caused the need for food to skyrocket:

"Food donation is always needed, but we've seen an even greater need this year as food banks across our region are seeing a much higher demand as a result of COVID and our current economic environment."

Officers say any support they receive will go a long way, and are accepting donations of money or any non-perishable foods.

While the drive itself is Thursday, food donations can also be dropped off at any of the following locations any time between Nov 16 - 23:

• Lakewood Police Department, 9401 Lakewood Dr. SW, Lakewood
• Classy Chassis, 7701 Custer Road W, Lakewood
• Classic Coffee, 4828 Bridgeport Way W, University Place
• Moonrise Cafe, 6020 Main St, Suite I, Lakewood

The food drive is being run alongside the Fallen Officer Blood Drive. However, the blood drive accepts donations by appointment only, and Lakewood police say they've filled all the available slots. That said, they encourage anyone who is interested in giving blood to contact Bloodworks Northwest.

"We sincerely appreciate the support the community has shown over the last 11 years," writes Lt. Chris Lawler. "Holding this annual food drive to help others is truly what we are about, and we look forward to making this another successful event."

Related: Millions Made Hungry By Pandemic Could Include Your Neighbor

Patch has partnered with Feeding America to help raise awareness on behalf of the millions of Americans facing hunger. Feeding America, which supports 200 food banks across the country, estimates that in 2020, more than 50 million Americans will not have enough nutritious food to eat due to the effects of the coronavirus pandemic. This is a Patch social good project; Feeding America receives 100 percent of donations. Find out how you can donate in your community or find a food pantry near you.