Food pantry tackles mounting food insecurity

By Marsha Sandman | CNA Media Team

Rachael Schweitzer, C3 Food Pantry manager, reports a fivefold increase in the needs of the pantry’s clients during the pandemic. More food and more volunteers are always welcome. Photo by Kaz Brooks

When things get tight, the dinner table might look a little sparse for some. That’s when members of the community – for whom giving is at the core of their beliefs – step in.

Rachel Schweitzer and her family are northeast Portland residents and attend C3 Church NE PDX in the Cully neighborhood.

Rachel was aware of the food insecurity experienced by many in the community and, with the support of her church and her pastors, Seth and Kaz Brooks, she took on the leadership of C3 Food Pantry in partnership with the Oregon Food Bank.

Rachel grew up as a child of missionary Lutheran parents in Papua, New Guinea. She moved to Portland to study at Concordia University, and she has served in various ministry roles over the years.

According to Rachel, she felt a calling to serve in practical ways in her local community. Although the church is currently not meeting in person because of COVID-19, the food pantry continues to serve the community as an essential service.

The C3 Food Pantry now has drivethrough and pick-up service at 6120 N.E. 57th Ave., the corner of 57th and Portland Highway. It is open Tuesdays and Saturdays from noon to 1 p.m.

Rachel remarked, “If you have a neighbor, friend or family member who needs food assistance, you are welcome to pick up for them.”

Each food box includes fresh produce and milk, and it holds about $100 to $150 worth of groceries.

Groceries are given out to about 150 households per distribution day. Rachel said the need has grown fivefold since the pandemic began. C3 Food Pantry receives donations from Oregon Food Bank and other food pantries, nonprofit agencies, supermarkets and individuals.

If you have any questions, would like to volunteer at or donate to the C3 Food Pantry, visit C3NEPDX.com, contact C3 Food Pantry at 503.997.2003 or Rachel@C3NEPDX.com.

After living east, south, north and west, Marsha Sandman is home at last. And she wants to hear your story. Contact her at MarshaJSandman@gmail.com.

Concordia Neighborhood Association | Portland, Oregon

1 thought on “Food pantry tackles mounting food insecurity”