Walla Walla area wineries raised a record amount of money this fall to help those in need this holiday season. The 11th Annual Barrel Full of Money fundraiser raised a record amount once again this holiday season, as nearly 50 Walla Walla Valley wineries, area businesses and nonprofit organizations teamed up to raise $85,134.00 for the Blue Mountain Action Council (BMAC) Food Bank.

“Generous support from the wine community, local businesses and individuals has propelled the Barrel Full of Money campaign to a 32% growth over last year,” said BMAC Food Bank Director Jeff Mathias. “The money raised in this effort will provide over 400,000 meals for our neighbors in need.”

The BMAC Food Bank distributes over 928,000 pounds of food through pantries across the region every year. Since starting in 2011, the Barrel Full of Money campaign has raised more than $365,000 in cash for the local food bank, which has been used to purchase bulk food items and perishables. Currently, the BMAC Food Bank is providing 6,000 meals daily to Walla Walla and Columbia counties.

“The Barrel Full of Money fundraiser highlights the collaborative spirit of the people in our community. This community steps up with generosity year after year 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 Walla Walla Valley Wine.

Next year, Barrel Full of Money will celebrate its 12th annual campaign.

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