As the University of Washington Huskies prepare to face off against the Washington State University Cougars in the 125th Apple Cup on September 20, North Bend is channeling that competitive spirit into a community-wide effort to combat local hunger.
The city’s inaugural Apple Cup Food Drive transforms rivalry into relief, with every donation helping stock the shelves of the Snoqualmie Valley Food Bank.
Game Plan: How to Participate
North Bend City Hall has become the playing field for this friendly competition. From September 2-20, residents can visit City Hall at 920 SE Cedar Falls Way to make their donation and pick their winning team. Simply choose between the Husky or Cougar donation box and add your unexpired food items.
Scoring System:
- 7 food items = 1 touchdown for your team
- 3 food items = 1 field goal for your team
City Hall is open Monday through Thursday from 8:30 AM to noon and 1:00 to 4:30 PM, and Friday from 8:30 AM to noon.
North Bend City Councilmember Christina Rustik and her family created and decorated the team competition boxes that are ready for donations at City Hall.
Most Needed Items for Summer 2025
The Snoqualmie Valley Food Bank has identified several high-priority items that will make the biggest impact for local families:
- Tuna and other canned proteins
- Dried beans and lentils (excluding pinto beans)
- Cooking oil
- Boxed macaroni and cheese
- Hearty soups with pop-top lids
- Baby formula (powdered Similac Advance is most requested)
For additional donation ideas and to access the food bank’s Amazon Wish List, visit www.snoqualmievalleyfoodbank.org/donate.
A Critical Time for Community Support
Behind this spirited competition lies a sobering reality: the Snoqualmie Valley Food Bank faces unprecedented challenges in meeting growing demand across North Bend, Snoqualmie, and surrounding communities.
Multiple federal program cuts have created a perfect storm of reduced food supply just as more families need assistance. The federal TEFAP program, which typically provides thousands of pounds of food monthly to the food bank, was cut in half this year, with potential for further reductions. Meanwhile, Northwest Harvest, a major statewide food supplier, has redirected resources to areas with higher populations and lower median incomes, cutting off essential items like canned meats and cooking oil to SVFB.
The situation is expected to worsen as recent SNAP benefit cuts take effect. The governor’s office estimates that SNAP recipients could lose 10-15% of their federal food assistance on average, with many losing eligibility entirely due to stricter requirements.
To compensate for shrinking federal support, SVFB has increased its food purchasing budget, but this approach isn’t sustainable without significant community backing. Without immediate action, the food bank risks running out of vital supplies, leaving local families without their crucial safety net.
Victory for All
While the Apple Cup will crown one football champion on September 20, this food drive ensures the entire Snoqualmie Valley community wins. When donations are tallied and the winning team announced, the real victory will be measured in meals provided to neighbors in need.
Whether you bleed purple and gold or crimson and gray, your participation helps tackle hunger in our community one donation at a time.
[Information provided by the City of North Bend]
