About Us

Fighting Hunger Since 1991

For over three decades and beyond, Palmer Emergency Food & Community Services has been dedicated to ensuring no one in our community goes hungry. Founded by Saint Michael Catholic Church and powered by volunteers, we proudly serve families throughout the Mat-Su Valley.

Our Mission

“Our mission is to ensure no one goes hungry in the Mat-Su.”

Serving individuals and families with dignity, compassion, and respect.

Fresh vegetables including kale, carrots, celery, rhubarb, zucchini, and a bowl of frozen berries, along with yellow flowers and green leaves.

Nourishing Our Community, One Meal at a Time

Palmer Emergency Food & Community Services, more commonly known as the Palmer Food Bank, is a volunteer-run 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to alleviating hunger in our community. Founded by Saint Michael Catholic Church in the early 1990s, we provide nutritious food to individuals and families in need throughout the Mat-Su Valley.

Through partnerships with local businesses, farms, and our dedicated volunteers, we distribute thousands of meals each week.

What Guides Our Work

Compassion

We treat everyone with dignity and respect, understanding that food insecurity can affect anyone.

Community

We believe in the power of people coming together to solve local challenges.

Impact

We strive to maximize every donation to create the greatest possible impact.

Integrity

We operate with transparency and accountability in all we do.

Over 30 Years of Community Service

1991

Palmer Emergency Food & Community Services was founded by Saint Michael Catholic Church

Early 1990’s

Began serving clients throughout the Mat-Su Valley

1992

Food Bank Building Begins Use

2012

Leadership & Growth

2020

Responded to unprecedented demand during the COVID-19 pandemic

2021

Recognized need for larger facility to serve a growing community

2024

Secured funding and plans for new building construction

2025

Breaking ground on expanded facility this spring

2026

New Facility Opens

Powered by Dedicated Volunteers

Our food bank runs on the passion and dedication of our volunteers who give their time each week. Volunteers are the heart of everything we do.

Multiple hands covered in red paint, forming a heart shape.
Two hands reaching out to each other, one above the other, against a plain background; one hand has a bracelet and the other a wristband.
Three women working together to unload or organize boxes of strawberries onto a truck during daytime, outdoors.
Person wearing a colorful sports jersey labeled 'VOLUNTEER' and a red cap, adjusting their mask at an outdoor event with other people in the background.