Community Action Partnership: More Than Food

Meeting immediate needs while building long-term stability

By Like Media Team

The Bonners Ferry office of Community Action Partnership (CAP) runs on one paid staff member, a network of volunteers, and approximately 1,100 to 2,000 pounds of rescued food from the local Safeway through the Second Harvest Grocery Rescue Program, arriving twice each week. Liz Bigsby-Sanborn, the office's Community Engagement Liaison, has spent 12 years helping make those resources count for individuals and families throughout Boundary County.

Rising rent, grocery prices, utility bills, and other living expenses are bringing more people through the door. Transportation limitations in rural Boundary County add another challenge, making it harder for some residents to reach groceries and services. Bigsby-Sanborn also sees many older clients living on Social Security, relying on food and energy assistance to cover what their fixed income cannot.

"We have Transactional Services, like our food bank that satisfies hunger right now," Bigsby-Sanborn says, "but we also have Transformational Services, such as coaching and housing that can help propel people forward, help set them upright again."

Most people in Bonners Ferry know CAP through its food bank. The nutrition program offers weekly Grocery Rescue pickups that include produce, dairy products, fruits, and vegetables. Several times a year, households can receive food boxes stocked with shelf-stable goods and meat. Personal care items are available year-round, and CAP provides turkey baskets and gifts during the holidays.

Beyond food, CAP administers the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), covering heating costs for wood, electricity, propane, and natural gas. The LIHEAP Crisis program assists when a household runs out of bulk fuel or receives a utility disconnection notice. Helping Hands and Project Share also provide utility assistance. The Housing Program provided by the Community Coalition for Families (CCFF) helps eligible residents avoid eviction or cover move-in costs in an emergency. A coaching program addresses financial education, goal-setting, and long-term stability.

Every intake begins with a conversation. Staff work to understand the full picture of what a household is facing, not just the most urgent need. Anyone who comes in needing food will not leave without it.

In June alone, the Second Harvest Mobile Food Truck provided 5,190 pounds of food to the Bonners Ferry office. Donations from local businesses, churches, and residents extend that supply. Volunteers are essential. With one paid staff member, the time they spend keeps programs running.

CAP recently celebrated its 60th year, and Bigsby-Sanborn has spent 12 of those years in Bonners Ferry. She doesn't hesitate when asked what keeps the office running.

"The community support in Bonners Ferry is outstanding," she says. "I don't use this word lightly. I have experienced the generosity firsthand and have heard from many groups and organizations that our community is one of the best supporters of its members. When there's a need, we rise to the occasion. Bonners Ferry is a community mindful of its citizens and ready to assist at any call."

Learn more at CAP4Action.org.

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