Tazlina, Alaska - This holiday season, the Copper River Resource Council Food Bank was deeply touched by the outpouring of generosity from across the region. Every donation big or small helps bring warmth and comfort to families who rely on us, and we could not do this work without the incredible support of our partners.
The Chinese Christian Church and Center generously donated $3,500, giving our Christmas efforts a powerful boost, while Bethel Baptist Church also contributed greatly to our holiday food support.
Local businesses shared in the spirit of giving as well. Copper Valley Telecom company gifted a beautifully decorated Christmas tree to a local family, bringing joy and a sense of holiday magic to their home.
Copper Valley Electric Association provided food and funds raised during their October pumpkin patch event, and Alyeska Pipeline matched every dollar, doubling the impact and helping us stretch every bit of support even further.
We also extend a heartfelt Tsin’aen to Copper River Native Association (CRNA) for their continued partnership and care for the families we serve.
And we absolutely could not do this work without Paul White, who volunteers every single day to make sure every client receives their food box. His dedication is a gift to this community, his kindness, consistency, and holiday spirit truly lights up the Food Bank. We are beyond grateful for everything he does.
Leading up to Christmas, volunteers were busy every day collecting food, organizing donations, packing boxes, and organizing distribution for Christmas Boxes. Their positive energy and holiday cheer filled the Food Bank reminding us that community is the heart of this season.
The boxes contained a turkey, yams, stuffing, strawberries, desserts, and pumpkin pie ingredients in addition to other sides. To make this happen, the Food Bank works year-round to collect donations, save holiday staples, and partner with the Food Bank of Alaska.
This year, students at Glennallen School held a festive and generous food drive, with Tribal Community Services at CRNA sponsoring a party for the classroom that donated the most. Their enthusiasm and kindness remind us how bright the future of our community truly is.
The Food Bank Board works tirelessly all year to ensure holiday support is available, striving to provide Christmas boxes consistently and, when funding allows, boxes for both Thanksgiving and Christmas in the future.
Despite financial challenges, the Copper River Resource Council Food Bank is filled with hope. Thanks to generous community members, partner organizations, and committed volunteers, The Food Bank provided Christmas Boxes to everyone in the community who requested one - 160 families.
Anyone who meets the Food Bank’s requirements is welcome to sign up for support. We also offer dedicated senior boxes for anyone age 60+. Applications are accepted Monday through Friday from 1:00–4:30 PM. Recertification typically occurs in October.
The Copper River Resource Council Food Bank serves families from Glennallen to Tok, Kenny Lake, Nelchina, and many communities in between. In addition to food, we also distribute toiletries such as toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, and toothbrushes- anything we have available to help families feel supported and secure during the winter months.
We are grateful for the community support in providing Christmas Boxes. To stay updated on future needs, volunteer opportunities, or Food Bank news, follow the Copper River Resource Council Food Bank on Facebook or call 907-822-8849.
If you or someone you know is experiencing hardship, such as recovering from a house fire, facing an unexpected crisis, or simply needing emergency food, please reach out.
The Food Bank is always here to support our community with compassion, respect, and without judgment. We know times can be tough, and we are grateful to be able to stand with our neighbors when they need it most.
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