Hello neighbor,

My name is Cecilia, the Warehouse Specialist for Lift UP. With the help of staff and dedicated volunteers, I coordinate grocery deliveries to more than 300 people each month through our Delivered Food Box program. These groceries are for Portland’s most vulnerable, 30% with specific dietary restrictions such as diabetes, Crohn’s Disease, and low sodium needs. Many clients have difficulty finding free food that meets their dietary restrictions, especially those homebound or unable to access a grocery store without assistance.

Fortunately, Lift UP, is committed to ensuring all of our neighbors continue to have access to the foods that keep them healthy and fed.

The world of a non-profit food agency is ever changing. Embracing the ambiguity of it all is a large part of the job. With food sources changing constantly, budget cuts impacting SNAP dollars, and rent increases, food is so often the epicenter and first to be impacted by these issues. And now, there’s a pandemic.

A big change we’ve seen as a result of COVID-19 is an increase in local businesses that have donated high quality food and fresh produce for our programs. Many of the businesses and restaurants are pausing or closing down their own operations - personally impacting the livelihoods of the entire staff. Despite such difficult circumstances, I have been very inspired to meet so many wonderful and thoughtful community members. They remind me and others, as essential service workers, of how impactful our role is in our community.

A special shout out to some of the recent local donations including:

- Aloha Juice Company
- Chinese Evangelical Church
- Honey Mama's Chocolate
- New Seasons Market Slabtown
- Painted Hills Natural Beef
- Spella Caffe

Now, we have reached a point where we need continued support from our neighbors and friends. With your assistance, we can remain open and continue to provide healthy food to our most vulnerable neighbors.

To support the Delivered Food Box program, sign up to make a monthly donation here.

Sincerely,

Cecilia Estraviz
Lift UP Warehouse Specialist

P.S. We are desperately seeking empty egg cartons and paper bags. To arrange a donation, contact me here.