At this time of year, as we all focus on what makes the holiday season bright, it does well to remember what we can do to aid those less fortunate. The Chippewa Valley has a number of services available for those in need, so this season consider donating or volunteering for one of the following organizations. (Remember, volunteer-driven groups need help all year, so sign up for some shifts in a few months, too.) If you or someone you know faces a food shortage, these organizations and events and many others can help. 

Hope Gospel Mission Christmas Community Dinner

Hope Gospel Mission, 2650 Mercantile Drive, Eau Claire

On Dec. 14, at 11:30am until 1:30pm Hope Gospel Mission will host a free Christmas Community Dinner, all are welcome. Shuttle service will be provided starting at 11am from Sojourner House, 618 S Barstow St.

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Pop-Up Food Pantry Hosted by Feed My People Food Bank

Banbury Place, Building No. 2, corner of Wisconsin & Putnam streets, Eau Claire

On Dec. 18 at 3:30pm, those in need of extra food are invited to pick up some fresh produce, assorted grocery items and non food items. Please bring your own bag or box to carry your food. Look for the Feed My People Truck and signs to find the exact location.

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The Community Table

320 Putnam St., Eau Claire • (715) 835-4977

The Community Table is a volunteer-run kitchen that provides one free meal a day to anyone who visits, no questions asked. Their schedule can be found online at thecommunitytable.org. You can also learn how to volunteer through the website.

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St. Francis Food Pantry

1221 Truax Blvd., Eau Claire • (715) 839-7706

 The St. Francis Food Pantry is a program developed for the purpose of assisting the hungry and needy of Eau Claire County. They are committed to gathering food and supplies to distribute. The work of the pantry is supported by people like you who volunteer and donate food/funds. The pantry is open for food distribution on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11am-3pm, and on Saturdays from 11am-2pm. (However, it is closed Dec. 24-25 and Dec. 31-Jan. 1.)

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Eau Claire Hmong Mutual Assistance Association

1320 West Clairemont Ave., Eau Claire • (715) 832-8420

The HMAA provides a free no-proof needed food shelf to families in need, provided by the Feed My People Food Bank. They also offer a unique program to provide 25 lb. bags of rice to families in need. Lean more at ecahmaa.org/rice.

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Nutrition Services at the ADRC

721 Oxford Ave., Eau Claire • (715) 839-4735

The Eau Claire County Aging and Disabilities Resources Center offers a number of senior and disability related food services, including senior dining, meal delivery, and liquid supplements. Learn more at www.co.eau-claire.wi.us.

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There are other food banks, pantries, and services available in Eau Claire and the Chippewa Valley. You can find these resources here.