Islanders Bank held its first fund and food drive for the Orcas Island Food Bank last year and decided to repeat it again with the goal of surpassing last year’s results. Previously, an entire carload of groceries were purchased with coins and bills and $200 in checks to the food bank – a value of $515 in all.

“We have very compassionate customers and employees,” said Barbara Ellenwood of Islanders Bank. “Raising money and food for the food bank will always be one of our favorite projects.”

A huge bin is at the entrance to gather food donations, and coin bins line the teller windows and office desks for cash donations. Their goal is to significantly surpass last year’s drive, and a “gauge” is set up in the lobby so all can see how they’re doing. The drive lasts until the end of December.