Dear friend,
Food is Medicine.
That's how Bill Gentile, a Lift UP Resident Advocate, described the impact of the Pop-Up Pantry program—an initiative that delivers fresh, nutritious food directly into affordable housing communities, many of which are home to low-income seniors and people with disabilities.
Resident Advocates like Bill live in the buildings Lift UP serves and partner with us to increase food access for their neighbors. Their firsthand knowledge of their community's needs helps Lift UP tailor services to ensure every neighbor is food secure.
“Reliable access to fresh fruits, vegetables and high-quality protein is the foundation for any healthy, holistic approach to nutritional well-being... Social isolation is a major contributor to poor health—and food is the common denominator in bringing people together.”
— Bill Gentile
Lift UP's Pop Up Pantry program plays a vital role by delivering healthy, culturally relevant food directly to the buildings where people live—and it does more than nourish bodies, it strengthens community.
Right now, the foundation of this work is under threat.
A freeze in USDA food funding has resulted in the immediate loss of 20% of Lift UP's food supply through Oregon Food Bank. At the same time, potential federal cuts to SNAP would impact over 700,000 Oregonians—putting even more strain on food banks already facing record demand.
At Lift UP, we've seen a 60% increase in demand for our services over the past three years. And while the future is uncertain, one thing is clear: local support is more important than ever.
Here's How You Can Help Right Now
1. Attend Making Connections 2025
April 23 | 6:00 – 8:30 PM
The Loft at 8th Avenue
Celebrate 45 years of community-rooted work, enjoy great food, hear inspiring stories, and help us fund critical food access programs.
→ Buy Tickets!
2. Enter the Rooted Raffle
Each $25 raffle ticket = meals for neighbors in need.
You'll be entered to win one of three incredible packages:
Rooted in Renewal *(Featured in Travel + Leisure)
2-Night Studio Stay + Soaks at Cascada Hotel & Spa
Personal Style Appointment at Garnish Apparel
Rooted in Feast
Private Dinner for 8 with Chef Natasha
Wine Tastings at Holloran Vineyards + JK Carriere
Gift Cards to Higgins and Fogo de Chão
Rooted in Adventure
Kayaking with Clackamas River Outfitters
Dahon Mu 10 Bike
Hopscotch Art Experience, Timbers Game, Blazers Suite & more
Your participation—whether through a raffle ticket or an event seat—helps us respond to rising need, bridge critical food supply gaps, and continue showing up for our neighbors with dignity and care.
Special thanks to Women's Healthcare Associates, a 2025 Making Connections sponsor, for standing with Lift UP and recognizing that food is more than a basic necessity—it's a source of community, connection, and care.
Thank you for helping us stay rooted in community.
Rooted in Gratitude,
Stephanie Barr, Executive Director
Food brings us together.
