Food Drive Supports Growing Need in Springfield

Willamalane hosts Putt for the Pantry from September 18 to 20

Willamalane’s food pantry served twice as many people in July and August 2026 compared to the same period in 2025. To help meet the demand, Willamalane is hosting a food drive at Camp Putt from September 18 to 20. For three cans of food, you can play a round of mini golf at the outdoor course located in Glenwood (4006 Franklin Blvd., Eugene). All donations will benefit Willamalane’s food pantry at the Willamalane Adult Activity Center. Learn more about Putt for the Pantry here.

Typically, the pantry receives most of its donations from Willamalane events that encourage donations in lieu of admission fees, such as Children’s Celebration and Concerts in the Park. Those events collected more than 5,000 pounds of food this summer. With the rising need in our community, Willamalane is seeking additional donations to help fill the gap. 

“In the last few years we’ve seen a sustained increase in demand for food, and Willamalane hopes to see our community mini golfing this weekend with a few cans of food to help keep the food pantry stocked.”

– Tracy Kribs, Special Events and Operations Program Manager, Willamalane Park and Recreation District

Donations can also be made during regular business hours at the Willamalane Adult Activity Center at any time of year. The most in-demand items include non-perishable, high-protein foods, such as tuna, peanut butter, and beans. A full list of high-demand items is available here. Monetary donations are also accepted online through the Willamalane Park Foundation here. 

About Willamalane Food Programs
Willamalane’s food programs address the needs of the Springfield-area community by providing affordable or free ways to access food. Willamalane’s food pantry is open every Wednesday from 12:00 to 1:00pm and is located at the Willamalane Adult Activity Center. There are no income verification or personal identification requirements. For more information, please call 541-736-4444. Other food programs at the Willamalane Adult Activity Center include a monthly community breakfast and daily senior meals. Food for Lane County also hosts a mobile food pantry at Bob Keefer Center on the fourth Friday of each month.

Aabout Willamalane Park and Recreation District
Willamalane Park and Recreation District maintains and operates recreation facilities, community centers, pools, parks, trails, and natural areas in Springfield. In addition, the district provides recreational activities, volunteer opportunities, and childcare that are accessible to people of all ages and abilities. Created by voters in 1944, Willamalane is a special tax district, separate from the City of Springfield, governed by a five-member, elected board of directors and managed by an executive director. In 2022, Willamalane earned CAPRA accreditation, which signifies that the organization’s overall quality of operations, management, and service to the community are aligned with industry best practices.