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After years of preparation, Helena Food Share has unveiled its new facility in Helena, Montana. The ribbon-cutting ceremony on October 15, 2024, celebrated the completion of a project aimed at improving services for those in need. The upgraded facility includes a commercial kitchen, expanded warehouse space, cold storage areas, and more.
The Market within the facility is designed to resemble a grocery store, offering visitors a dignified shopping experience. Executive Director Bruce Day noted that their design drew inspiration from visits to bishops’ storehouses operated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. “Going to the bishops’ storehouse was one of those field trips that we took [to learn] what we needed and wanted to be able to provide here in this community,” he explained.
The Church of Jesus Christ played a significant role in funding the $12 million project with a $1.3 million donation—their largest humanitarian contribution in Montana. This funding provided for a fully equipped commercial kitchen capable of producing large quantities of food. Sister Sarah Crowell mentioned that cookies were among the first items made for the open house celebration.
Kim Dale, program operations director at Helena Food Share, emphasized the impact: “[The Church] made this kitchen... This was the game changer … this is the part of the building for us that takes us into the future.” Sally Beck added that it would help reduce food waste significantly.
In addition to supporting infrastructure improvements like retail refrigerators and cold storage facilities, this partnership is expected to enhance Helena Food Share’s capacity considerably. The organization projects increases in outreach and food distribution over the coming year.
Latter-day Saint volunteers are integral to operations at Helena Food Share. Jim Stanger expressed support for their mission: “We wholeheartedly support the Helena Food Share’s mission to serve our neighbors in their time of need.” Full-time missionaries like Sister Crowell and Sister Emily Marsh regularly volunteer at the facility.
Founded in 1987, Helena Food Share continues its commitment to providing emergency food assistance with dignity and respect.
