Food Pantry

Updated November 23, 2025

Bethel EDC Food Pantry

The food distribution program, established by Mrs. Clara Peoples in 1969 at Bethel AME Church, was reorganized under the direction of Bethel EDC in 2002. Food is donated by local vendors and grocers and is distributed to needy families. The EDC’s goal is to maximize the use of existing resources to serve families who need assistance and to help residents involve themselves in self-help programs as food distribution volunteers.

Open Hours

For the winter months November – March 2025-26

Pantry and clothing closet will be open on Friday afternoons and after church on Sundays.

Supplying School Food Pantries

Did you know that Portland schools have food pantries that help meet the needs of families who don’t have transportation available to drive to local food programs? Bethel EDC was providing 600-800 pounds of food every other month to George and Boise Eliot Schools 2022-2024 to help meet the needs of our community. That need has grown in 2025. First AME Zion and Bethel AME EDC continue to bring food and holiday meals to these PPS families.

Food Programs in Oregon

SNAP application help in Oregon Link

Ways to Use Your SNAP Benefits:

Double Up Food Bucks This program will match up to $20 of your SNAP benefits to purchase produce at participating Oregon CSA’s, farmer’s markets, farm stands, and grocery stores! (i.e., up to $20 of SNAP money can turn into $40 to use at vendor tables). While SNAP benefits can be used for many food items, Double Up Food Bucks can only purchase fruits, vegetables, mushrooms, beans, herbs, nuts, and veggie starts. The Lane County Farmers Market, among others, participates. Find participating locations near you!

Ordering Food Online You can now use SNAP benefits to order food online through Amazon and Walmart for home delivery across Oregon. Albertsons, Safeway, Whole Foods, and local stores also accept online SNAP payments.