Partner Spotlight: Chelan Douglas Community Action Council

Thriving communities are built on the foundation of well-nourished individuals who have access to affordable, nutritious foods.

Under the Vital Conditions framework, adequate nutrition is a basic need for health and safety as it is essential for proper growth and development, disease prevention, and more.

Organizations that provide food distribution services, like Chelan Douglas Community Action Council (CDCAC), create more resilient communities by strengthening this vital condition and bringing people together under the belief that everyone deserves a chance to thrive.

CDCAC assists individuals and families moving out of poverty and into a lifestyle that promotes a safer and healthier living environment. In addition to their Food Distribution Center, CDCAC offers a diverse number of programs and services including but not limited to, energy assistance, asset building, English literacy, and housing assistance.

For nearly 30 years, CDCAC’s Food Distribution Center has existed in the same rented warehouse, serving 7,000 visitors each month with food distribution services to approximately 20 sites throughout Chelan and Douglas Counties. In 2022, CDCAC launched a capital campaign with hopes of progressing towards a community commercial kitchen, new community food pantry, and consolidating all CDCAC operations into one location. Earlier this year, Thriving Together NCW supported this project by awarding funds to CDCAC through a Cross-Sector Collaborations grant.

CDCAC Closes On a New Location

CDCAC has since closed on the purchase of the C&O Nursery property located at 1700 North Wenatchee Avenue. The new location will provide 20,000 square feet and will include a food pantry and commercial kitchen. CDCAC plans to increase cross-sector partnerships by collaborating with local farmers, small businesses, and community members who would like to use the commercial kitchen for nutritional education, cooking demonstrations, and food processing.

Eliminating food insecurity is a fundamental step toward building equitable communities where all individuals have the opportunity to reach their full potential. By supporting and amplifying the efforts of organizations like CDCAC, we are investing in a future where no one feels left behind. If you’re interested in supporting CDCAC’s efforts to eliminate poverty, click here to learn about how you can get involved.