Concert fundraiser focuses on feeding those in need

Feed the Need, a benefit concert for the Flathead Food Bank and Samaritan House, takes place at 7 p.m. today, Oct. 13, at the Jewel Basin Center. Cocktails and food will be available.

Local musician Tommy Edwards and Jack Rogan, who both appeared on season 21 of NBC’s singing reality show “The Voice,” will be performing.

As food and housing costs soar in the Flathead, two of the area’s key nonprofits, Flathead Food Bank and Samaritan House, must weather exceptional challenges this winter. It is estimated that food costs have increased as much as 40% just in the last year, bringing a significant challenge for both organizations, which are the first line of defense against hunger and homelessness in our valley.

The concert is focused solely on raising funds to offset the dramatic inflation in food costs.

Ticket prices will follow a "pay what you can" format. Tickets will only be sold at the door. A generous match provided by community member, Lucy Smith, will double whatever is raised at the door up to $10,000.

Donations may be provided via cash, check, Venmo or Paypal. If you cannot attend but wish to donate toward the match, donations may be made in advance online at https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=RCVDMRXSFSAV6 or via Venmo (@FlatheadFoodBank). Make note that donations are for Feed the Need.

RSVPs via the Facebook event are encouraged.

The Jewel Basin Center is located at 218 Sportsman Lane in Bigfork.