Local turn-A-leaf thrift stores employees share stories of delivering food to the Mat-Su Food Bank

Valley Charities’ turn-A-leaf Thrift Store delivery drivers Tyler Albrecht and Brian Hopp share what it means to deliver nonperishable, non-expired food for our local Mat-Su Food Bank. Tyler Albrecht says it’s gratifying to know that it’s not just a job to deliver food to the Food Bank, “We’re actually helping real people. The entire staff are always super friendly. It’s great because we’ve got each other’s back with the same cause to help people who need it.” He added that for the first time ever, we witnessed a line of people waiting outside their building because of the snap benefits are not currently available. That’s when you know, it’s not just a job, but a great thing where we can collect food and deliver it to the Mat-Su Food Bank.

Another delivery driver, Brian Hopp, remembers the moment that made him realize how important the Mat-Su Food Bank work really is, sharing that he had driven a staff member who was going through difficult times to the Food Bank so that they could get food for their family and kids. “I have a very positive view of the Food Bank and know how important and helpful they are to our community.”

Valley Charities’ recently kicked off its “Stock the Cupboards November Food Drive.” From now until November 30, residents can help those struggling to fill their pantries by dropping off donations of food at turn A leaf Thrift Stores, supporting the MATSU Food Bank. “Every can, every box, every bag makes a difference!”

turn-A-leaf Thrift Stores is a convenient drop-off location for collecting food located next to the Main Post Office in Wasilla and directly behind the Carrs Grocery Store at 400 N Yenlo Street | Wasilla 99654

To learn more about Valley Charities and turn-A-leaf Thrift Store, please visit www.valleycharities.org, and follow their Facebook and Instagram pages to stay on top of events, contests and special sales.