The Josephine County Food Bank is calling on community members to help honor those who are making a significant impact in the fight against food insecurity. The organization is now accepting nominations for its annual Hunger Hero awards, which aim to recognize individuals, organizations, or groups dedicated to improving food security and the overall well-being of residents in Josephine County.
The Hunger Hero awards celebrate those who have gone above and beyond to address the issue of hunger in the community. Nominations are open to anyone—whether they are from Josephine County or not—as long as their efforts directly benefit local residents. The Food Bank encourages the public to nominate as many deserving individuals or groups as they wish. However, self-nominations are not allowed.
The deadline for submitting nominations is May 12, 2025, providing ample time for community members to highlight the remarkable contributions of their peers. The recipients of the Hunger Hero awards will be honored at the Food Bank’s annual fundraiser, Shining a Light on Hunger, which will take place on June 12, 2025, at Vista 222 in Grants Pass. This event serves not only to recognize the incredible work done by those committed to alleviating hunger but also to raise vital funds for the Food Bank’s ongoing operations and programs.
Patrice Hanlon, a representative of the Josephine County Food Bank, expressed excitement about the opportunity to celebrate these local heroes, saying, “The Hunger Hero awards are a wonderful way to shine a light on those who are truly making a difference in our community. Whether through volunteering, donating, or other forms of support, these individuals and organizations are helping us move closer to a hunger-free Josephine County.”
The awards aim to acknowledge a wide range of contributions to food security. Whether it’s individuals who volunteer their time at the Food Bank or organizations that collaborate to distribute food to those in need, these awards highlight the diverse ways the community is working together to fight hunger. The recognition is not limited to large-scale initiatives; every act of kindness, no matter the size, is valued in this community-driven effort.
As Josephine County continues to face challenges related to food insecurity, the Food Bank remains a critical resource for individuals and families in need. The Hunger Hero awards not only honor those making a difference but also serve as a reminder of the importance of continued support for food assistance programs throughout the county.
Community members interested in submitting nominations can do so by contacting Patrice Hanlon at (541) 479-5556 or via email at phanlon@jocofoodbank.org. For those looking to attend the Shining a Light on Hunger fundraiser, more details will be available as the event date approaches.
The Josephine County Food Bank encourages everyone to participate in this opportunity to recognize the tireless efforts of those dedicated to fighting hunger, improving lives, and building a stronger, more connected community.
