Long-standing local businesses partner in support of islanders in need

||| FROM MEGAN EHRMANTROUT for ORCAS COMMUNITY RESOURCE CENTER |||

Orcas Island Market and Ray’s General Store & Pharmacy are teaming up to support the most vulnerable in our community. We are proud to partner with the Orcas Community Resource Center (OCRC) to help those in need. Combining our resources and matching community donations up to a total of $15,000, funds will be doubled in support of OCRC working to support islanders in need. 

Orcas Island Market, formally Templin’s General Store, was historically located on Prune Alley in the current Ray’s Pharmacy building. The family owned and operated business has provided our island community with groceries and nourishment since 1897.

Ray’s General Store & Pharmacy, operated by Rick and Marlace Hughes since 2006, began serving Orcas Island in 1973. Ray’s island presence is invaluable as the primary local source for pharmaceuticals and general wares in our community. 

Ray’s General Store & Pharmacy and Orcas Island Market have deep roots in our community, with long-standing Templin and Fowler family history, dating back to before Washington statehood. As our island community evolves, the ever constant presence of our local businesses provides stability that our neighbors can depend on. “It’s an honor to partner with Rick and Marlace on such an important initiative. Our business leaders standing together for the greater good of our community is invaluable.” says Jacob Linnes of Orcas Island Market.

The comfort of having a safety net for islanders during times of need is invaluable. This year to date, 20% of Orcas households have received critical support services through the Orcas Community Resource Center. The good news is – YOU can help! Together we can assist islanders in need with housing, utilities, transportation, medical and mental healthcare, household goods and more. 

Please join us in this collective commitment to the well-being of our island neighbors. There are two ways to donate and have your gift make twice the impact as part of our matching opportunity. Visit Orcas Island Market’s website at orcasislandmarket.com or OCRC’s website at orcascrc.org and specify “match” in the comments section.