AmericanWest Bank is hosting a bank-wide food drive at its Bainbridge Island branch on Hildebrand Lane through May 31.

The annual food drive helps meal-assistance programs and food banks in Kitsap County and across Washington. All food and cash donations made in Bainbridge Island will go directly to the Helpline House to help stock the shelves before children are out of school for summer vacation.

“Helpline House assists many families on the Island and we are very pleased to step up and do our part in support of our community,” said Linda Lincoln, Bainbridge Island branch manager.

“This project is one of the benefits of working for a community bank that truly cares about what impacts our neighbors and takes action to be a part of the solution,” she said.

Organizers of the food drive said the effort is especially timely, and noted that summertime is a particularly challenging time for families already struggling to make ends meet because kids are out of school and not getting the benefit of subsidized lunch programs.

In addition to the branch as a collection site, bank employees are partnering with local businesses to lead the charge in gathering donations for this important cause.

Islanders can make a food or cash donation at the branch at 921 Hildebrand Lane or the following Bainbridge Island businesses through the end of the month: Winslow Wharf Marina (141 Parfitt Way SW); Bainbridge Arts & Crafts (151 Winslow Way E); Meadowmeer Golf & Country Club (8530 Renny Lane NE); and Island Cool (4642 Lynwood Center Road NE).

The Helpline House is located at 282 Knechtel Way NE, Bainbridge Island. To find out more about how to help, call 206-842-7621.