Sierra Community House provides hunger relief in the region.
For some Reno-Tahoe residents, thinking about food doesn’t mean deciding which delicious local dining spot to try; instead, it means wondering how they will feed themselves or their families. One of the local groups working to alleviate this is Sierra Community House, by leveraging community support in the North Tahoe-Truckee region.
Founded in 2019, SCH has roots extending back nearly 40 years. The 501(c)3 is the result of a merger of four formerly independent organizations: Family Resource Center of Truckee, North Tahoe Family Resource Center, Tahoe SAFE Alliance, and Project MANA.
“Now that we’re one organization, we really get to know people coming through. They may come for hunger relief, but there are often underlying challenges that require other services. This is a trauma-informed way to help the community as easily and seamlessly as possible,” says Allison Edwards, development director of SCH.
Serving the Community
SCH has food distribution sites in Truckee, Kings Beach, and Incline Village. Services are available to all members of the community without proof of income required.
In February, the Truckee and Kings Beach distribution centers both launched community pantries, replacing the former Blue Bag system. The new pantries allow community members to select ingredients they need and want, so they experience what Edwards calls “dignity of choice.”
Patrick Kratzer, director of SCH’s hunger relief program, acknowledges the important role that community plays in the success of SCH.
“We are constantly inspired by our partnerships with local food banks, grocery stores, farms, and the Slow Food Lake Tahoe community garden that donate food to us every week,” Kratzer says. “It is the best feeling to see our community members receiving healthy and balanced food to share with their families. Our volunteers are the true engine of the Hunger Relief program, and they give me so much hope that our community will continue to flourish in a healthy and equitable way.”
Fall Fundraiser
On Oct. 19, SCH will host its popular annual fundraiser, the Tahoe Chocolate and Wine Festival (in its 34th year). This year’s theme is a masquerade ball, and attendees will enjoy music from local band Sneaky Creatures, playing a mix of rock, jazz, and Dixieland funk.
“It’s a lovely evening to celebrate what SCH provides to the community while enjoying food, chocolate, and wine,” Edwards says of the event.
For tickets, visit One.bidpal.net/tahoechocolateandwinefestival.
For details about SCH, visit Sierracommunityhouse.org.
