For homebound seniors and adults living with disabilities in Portland, a smiling face at their doorstep can make all the difference — especially when the visitor has groceries in tow.
That’s the impact of local nonprofit Store to Door’s staff and team of 1,200 volunteers, who each year provide food security and social connection to 700 community members. The organization has been around since 1989, and although COVID forced Store to Door to tweak its approach slightly, its steadfast presence was — and remains — vital for many people.
The main goal is to enable clients to live independently and with dignity for as long as possible in their own homes. On Mondays and Tuesdays, Store to Door volunteers call clients and take their grocery orders. Then on Wednesdays and Thursdays, volunteer shoppers visit the Hollywood and Beaverton Fred Meyer stores to pick up food, prescriptions, and other household items before making the deliveries. Clients ultimately pay their grocery bill and a delivery fee of 10%.
Another component is the Friendly Caller program, a chance for volunteers to chat with clients — 90% of whom live alone — to stave off the harmful effects of isolation. A partnership with Portland Open Bible Community Pantry has enabled them to expand their reach, providing individually catered food boxes.
“This agency has given me more than just my groceries,” said Lynn Lawnmaster, a Store to Door client. “It’s given me a boost of life.”
Enrollment for new clients is currently closed due to overwhelming demand, but those interested are encouraged to apply for the waitlist. If Store to Door’s message speaks to you, it’s always looking for additional support — delivery drivers in particular are needed in Portland and Beaverton.