Dear friend,

We’ve talked so much about the changes we’ve faced this past year, and we cannot express enough respect and admiration for our Lift UP volunteers who came together and supported us. Without them, we wouldn’t be able to continue providing services to our neighbors in need. April is Volunteer Appreciation Month, so we’ll be highlighting some of our volunteer crew over the next four weeks. Let’s get to know some of our volunteers together!

Liv and Ashaen are part of our Friday distribution team at Preston’s Pantry. They both began volunteering in response to the rising need they saw at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Liv joined the team about one year ago and Ashaen started shortly after. While they didn’t know each other previously, they quickly formed an effective team.

While shoppers are perusing the fresh produce selection at Preston’s Pantry, Liv and Ashaen work quickly to pack grocery bags with items that are available upon request, such as frozen meat, canned items, snacks, and other pantry staples. They’ve gotten to know clients as well, and pay attention to which special items clients will be excited about. “Their faces light up when we’re able to provide them with food they’ll enjoy.”

Lift UP Volunteer Manager Abby has this to say about our Rockstar volunteers. “I love having Ashaen and Liv as part of the Friday distribution team. They bring great energy to the work, pack a lot of food in a busy environment, and provide excellent service to clients.”

Thank you for everything you do, Liv and Ashaen! We’re proud to have you as part of the Lift UP Family!

Gratefully,

The Lift UP Team

Tomorrow, Thursday April 1st, Lift UP is partnering with Fifty Licks Ice Cream! All sales of their Mango Sticky Rice ice cream is being to donated to help fight hunger in Northwest and Downtown Portland. It's vegan and gluten-free- perfect for celebrating spring!

Pick up pints at any of their three locations:

2742 E Burnside Street
1647 NW 21st Avenue
2021 SE Clinton Street

All locations open 1pm until 10pm. See you there!

Food brings us together.