Hope Creek – Mill Creek’s Food Bank Could Use Help
In the heart of Mill Creek, Washington, the Hope Creek Charitable Foundation has been a beacon of compassion and support for families facing food insecurity. Operating the Mill Creek Community Food Bank and the Backpacks of Hope program, this 501(c)(3) nonprofit has served over 90,000 people in Snohomish County, distributing more than 1.5 million pounds of food last year alone. With a mission rooted in community, generosity, and hope, they provide not just food but dignity and care to those in need. Now, they need our help to complete a critical project—a new, larger facility to better serve our neighbors. A Growing Need, A New Beginning The Mill Creek Community Food Bank has grown tremendously, now serving over 450 families weekly, a 115% increase since the challenges of 2020. But earlier this year, a windstorm brought a devastating setback when a fallen tree damaged their three portable buildings, leaving food exposed to the elements and volunteers working under tents. Despite this, the community rallied, raising $200,000 through a “buy-a-brick” campaign and generous donations, including $20,000 from the Mill Creek Rotary Club. On August 4, 2025, Hope Creek broke ground on a new 80×56-foot warehouse behind Gold Creek Community Church, a facility that will offer loading docks, protection from the weather, and space to store and distribute food more effectively.
This new building is more than just a structure—it’s a promise to provide consistency and respect to those who rely on the food bank. As Executive Director Tom Sweeney shared, “If you’re already down and out and now you’re standing out in the freezing cold because you’re hungry, if we can get them under a canopy, treat them with respect and give them the dignity they deserve, that’s what I would want.” The goal is to have the warehouse operational by Thanksgiving 2025, potentially even transforming a container into a clothing store to further support the community.
How You Can Help: Donate to Finish the Build. While the groundbreaking is a milestone, Hope Creek still needs financial support to complete this vital project. Every dollar donated brings them closer to creating a stronger, more welcoming space for families, volunteers, and staff. You can make a direct impact by donating through the Hope Creek Charitable Foundation website at www.hopecreekcf.org or, excitingly, right on the registration page for the Run of the Mill 5K, where Hope Creek is a proud sponsor.
Your contributions will help fund essential features like loading docks to streamline operations and sheltered areas to protect food and people from rain and cold. Whether it’s $10 or $100, every donation helps fill shelves, feed families, and build hope. Join the Run of the Mill 5K and Support Hope Creek The Run of the Mill 5K is more than just a race—it’s a celebration of community and a chance to give back. As a sponsor, Hope Creek is at the heart of this event, and participants can donate directly to the food bank’s new building fund during registration. Lace up your sneakers, gather your friends and family, and run or walk to support a cause that’s transforming lives in Mill Creek. By participating, you’re not only promoting a healthier community but also helping Hope Creek provide nutritious food and essential resources to those who need it most.
Beyond Food: Hope Creek’s impact goes far beyond providing groceries. Their “client choice” shopping model allows families to select the foods that best suit their needs, fostering dignity and empowerment. The Backpacks of Hope program supports 500 students across 20 schools with weekend meal packages, ensuring kids don’t go hungry when school’s out. Volunteers, many of whom are former guests, create a unique cycle of care, building a community rooted in compassion and mutual support.
The food bank also partners with local organizations like Gold Creek Community Church, the Mill Creek Rotary Club, and even DoorDash, which delivers food to clients at no cost. They accept donations of non-perishable items like canned protein, pasta, rice, and toiletries, as well as pet food and diapers, at multiple drop-off locations, including Mill Creek City Hall and the YMCA.
A Call to Action
The Mill Creek Community Food Bank is a testament to what we can achieve when we come together. As they work to complete their new facility, let’s show them the same generosity they extend to our neighbors every day. Donate today through their website or the Run of the Mill 5K registration page. Volunteer your time, drop off non-perishable goods, or spread the word about their mission. Together, we can help Hope Creek continue to provide food, hope, and dignity to our community. Visit www.hopecreekcf.org to learn more, sign up to volunteer, or make a donation. Join us at the Run of the Mill 5K and let’s run toward a future where no one in Mill Creek goes hungry. Thank you for being part of this ripple effect of kindness and hope!
