PALMER, Alaska — Construction has officially begun on the new Palmer Food Bank, a project designed to expand the nonprofit’s ability to serve families and individuals in need.
The new facility, located near the intersection of South Denali Street and East Arctic Avenue, broke ground this summer and is already beginning to take shape. Once completed, the building will be twice the size of the current location, allowing the organization to handle higher demand and offer more services to the community.
The Palmer Food Bank currently distributes about 35,000 pounds of food each month, providing critical support to families facing food insecurity across the Mat-Su Valley. Leaders say the expansion is not just about square footage but about strengthening their mission.
“The larger space will help us better meet the community’s demand,” a spokesperson said, emphasizing that the new building will improve storage, food distribution, and volunteer coordination.
Food insecurity has been a persistent challenge in Alaska, where high food costs and limited access in rural areas often put additional strain on households. In Palmer, the food bank has seen a steady rise in the number of people seeking assistance, particularly during the pandemic and the subsequent rise in living expenses.
The new building will provide:
The project is supported by local donors, volunteers, and community partners who recognize the food bank’s vital role in reducing hunger. Community leaders have praised the effort, noting that the expansion will help ensure families don’t have to choose between paying bills and putting food on the table.
The Palmer Food Bank also works closely with schools, churches, and other nonprofits to distribute food where it is needed most. By doubling its capacity, the organization hopes to expand partnerships and reach even more residents.
Construction is expected to continue into next year, with a projected opening date once the facility is completed and fully equipped. When the new building opens, it will represent a significant milestone not only for the food bank itself but for the entire Palmer community.
“This is more than just a building—it’s an investment in the health and stability of our community,” the organization’s leadership said.
The food bank encourages residents to stay engaged by donating food, contributing financially, or volunteering time to support ongoing operations.
Originally reported by Anthony Wright in Your Alaska Link.
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