Despite Pandemic Barrel Full Of Money Records Record Year
The 10th annual Barrel Full of Money fundraiser was another success this year. Despite the challenges due to the pandemic, near 50 Walla Walla Valley wineries, area businesses and non-profit groups teamed up to raise $64,737.47 to help the Blue Mountain Action Council Food Bank.
“Generous support from the wine community, local businesses and individuals has propelled the Barrel Full of Money campaign to a 16% growth over last year,” said BMAC Food Bank Director Jeff Mathias. “The money raised in this effort will provide over 320,000 meals for our neighbors in need.”
Officials with the food bank said the support is needed more now than ever, with 5% of Walla Walla County and 10% of neighboring Columbia County relying on the food bank for meals.
The BMAC Food Bank distributes over 928,000 pounds of food through pantries in Walla Walla County every year. Since its inception in 2011, the Barrel Full of Money campaign has raised more than $280,000 in cash for the local food bank, all of which has been used to purchase bulk food items and perishables. This year, support is needed more than ever, as 5% of Walla Walla County and 10% of Columbia County are relying on the food bank for meals.
The Barrel Full of Money officials said they had to shift the fundraising campaign methods this year due to the pandemic.
“Each year, the Barrel Full of Money fundraiser highlights the generosity and collaborative heart of the people in our community. Even in a year of uncertainty, this community stepped up to provide for our neighbors in need. We look forward to the continued support of the Blue Mountain Action Council Food Bank, and success of the Barrel Full of Money fundraiser,” said Shelby Pryor, Committee Chair for Barrel Full of Money and Communications & Marketing Coordinator for the Walla Walla Valley Wine Alliance.
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