Donate! Multnomah County Food and Clothing Drive

Here's an easy way to help folks get through the winter cold.

Multnomah County Chairman Jeff Cogen and Commissioners Loretta Smith, Diane McKeel and Judy Shiprack announced a winter food and warm clothing drive today, benefiting the Oregon Food Bank and Children's Community Clinic.

To donate through Feb. 4, bring non-perishable food and warm clothing to the 10 drop-off locations around Portland, listed here (PDF), including the main drop-off site at the Multnomah Building (501 S.E. Hawthorne Blvd.).

"This is going to make it easier for [Portland] families to make it through the winter," said Smith, who began her four-year term today.

"Giving needs to be something that happens year-round," said Cogen, "and we're asking people to help."

The demand for winter essentials has grown with the continuing economic recession. "The need [for food donations] has increased as food industry donations have dropped...food crises are increasing," said Oregon Food Bank Executive Director Rachel Bristol.