For the 41st year, churches, neighborhood associations and volunteers across East Jefferson County are teaming up to stock the shelves of the Jefferson County Food Bank. 

The 2026 WAVE Food Drive — short for "What A Valuable Experience" — runs throughout October, with a countywide collection day on Saturday, Oct. 31, “Food for All Day,” as designated by county and city proclamations.  

This year the goal is to raise $50,000. The food bank serves an average of 750 to 800 households each week and stretches cash and food donations through partnerships with local farmers and grocers, an amazing arrangement that supports growers and the wider local economy alongside those who use the food banks. 

What began in 1985 as a faith-coordinated effort to help Port Townsend Food Bank has since grown into a countywide campaign involving churches, homeowners' associations and individual volunteers. For over four decades, the WAVE has brought in tens of thousands of dollars and countless pounds of food. 

How to help 

Food and monetary donations will be accepted from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 31, at five locations: 

• Port Townsend: Church of Christ, 230 A St. 

• Port Townsend: Port Townsend Friends, 1841 Sheridan St. 

• Quilcene: Quilcene First Presbyterian Church, 29433 Highway 101 

• Chimacum: Lutheran Church of the Redeemer, 45 Redeemer Way 

• Port Ludlow: Port Ludlow Beach Clubhouse, 121 Marina View Drive 

Most needed items include canned proteins such as meat, beans, and peanut butter, along with canned fruits and vegetables, cereal, and shelf-stable milk. All donations must be unopened, undamaged, and unexpired. 

🌟 Let’s honor 41 years of community care by raising $50,000 for our neighbors in need. Together, we can make hunger history. 🌟