Local businesses offer $15,000 fundraising match to benefit Resource Center 

||| FROM MEGAN EHRMANTRAUT for COMMUNITY RESOURCE CENTER |||

In a heartwarming display of local generosity, Orcas Island Market and Ray’s Pharmacy have teamed up to offer a $15,000 fundraising match in support of the Orcas Community Resource Center. This generous contribution furthers essential services for islanders such as housing support, physical and mental healthcare navigation, food access, transportation support, and more. Every donation is matched dollar-for-dollar, up to $15,000.    

Meeting the Growing Needs of Our Community

Much like across the nation, islanders are facing rising costs of living along with local housing challenges and the need for supportive services is evident. “We’ve seen more and more working families, individuals and seniors who need help just making ends meet,” said a Resource Center team member. “Thanks to this matching gift, we can stretch every donation further and help more people stay in their homes, keep the lights on, and get the medical care they need.”

Jacob Linnes of Orcas Island Market emphasized the importance of community support in the decision to offer the match:

“The Orcas community has always been a place where we look out for one another. With our growth over the last 30 years, Island Market is proud to collaborate with partners like the Orcas Community Resource Center to ensure that all islanders have access to a safety net when needed. We are grateful for the long-standing partnership with our friends at Ray’s Pharmacy, working together to support our community. We cherish the chance to give back to a community that has collectively supported us for over a century.”

Life-Changing Services

The Orcas Community Resource Center is a lifeline for many islanders, providing essential services such as rental and utility assistance, mental health referrals, hygiene products, and more. Last year alone, the Resource Center assisted over 600 households in navigating financial and personal crises. 

“Without the support of the Resource Center, I don’t know how I would have made it through this year,” said one Orcas resident, who received help with facing unexpected medical bills. “They were there for me when I needed it most.”

How You Can Help

The fundraising match is active now and throughout the month of September. Donations can be made online at orcascrc.org, by mail, or in person. Every dollar counts, and with the match, your gift will go twice as far. A sincere thank you to Island Market and Ray’s Pharmacy for their dedication to our island’s well-being. By choosing to shop local, we support island businesses, boost our local economy, and reinforce the very foundation of our community.