Spring, the “season of renewal,” is not so pretty for Puget Sound-area food banks. This time of year typically brings a drop in donations and dwindling staples on the shelves, leaving many regional food banks faced with the growing challenge in meeting critical hunger needs – including those in Thurston, Pierce and King counties.

Aiming to change this trend, Heritage Bank will be lending a hand to make an important difference for hungry people in its communities during the Bankers Care Spring Food Drive, March 18 through April 5.

More than 500 local bank branches from Everett to Olympia will be supporting Northwest Harvest and local food banks by collecting donations of cash and non-perishable food items during this time period.

The campaign is part of Bankers Care – Lending A Hand In Our Community, a new outreach program sponsored by the Washington Bankers Association (WBA). As a WBA member institution, Heritage Bank has joined in the Bankers Care program, which focuses on the many ways bankers can help meet the vital needs of people across the state.

During the three week Spring Food Drive campaign, all Thurston, Pierce and King County Heritage Bank branches will be collecting donations. For a list of these office locations, please visit www.HeritageBankNW.com.

Because Northwest Harvest works with local food banks throughout the region, contributions collected at branches will directly support local communities. Heritage Bank customers, along with members of the communities are encouraged to participate. Cash donations are accepted and can be made online at www.bankersinwacare.com.