Dine Out for Maple Alley Inn returns: Help your community provide nutritious meals | Opinion

Lorena Shah, Opportunity Council
·2 min read

Dine Out for Maple Alley Inn returns the week of May 15-22, featuring participation from 25 area restaurants dedicated to supporting Whatcom County’s beloved hot meal program.

Now in its 23rd year, Dine Out for Maple Alley Inn remains a cornerstone fundraising event in Whatcom County. The concept is simple yet impactful: community members dine out at participating restaurants, and these establishments generously donate a portion of their proceeds to Opportunity Council’s Maple Alley Inn. This vital program is committed to serving healthy, scratch-made meals to a diverse spectrum of individuals in need, including low-income families, people experiencing homelessness, veterans, isolated seniors, individuals in recovery and other vulnerable community members.

This year’s event promises an array of dining options suitable for every palate and occasion. Opportunity Council invites supporters to indulge in a meal that not only delights the taste buds but also nourishes the entire community.

Who We Are

Since 1987, Maple Alley Inn has been steadfast in its mission to combat hunger in Whatcom County by offering nutritious meals and a sense of belonging to those in need. Serving as a beacon of hope, Maple Alley Inn brings together individuals from various walks of life, fostering companionship and sharing stories over approximately 20,000 four- to five-course meals prepared annually. Furthermore, the program sustains an organic garden, providing over 1 ton of fresh produce each year to Maple Alley Inn.

A Legacy of Giving

Since its inception in 2001, Dine Out for Maple Alley Inn has raised over $400,000 thanks to the unwavering support of local Whatcom County restaurants and thousands of diners.

“Dine Out for Maple Alley Inn is such a fun way to give back to an important program. Grab family, coworkers, and friends and see how many restaurants you can visit during Dine Out week. It’s a great way to support area restaurants before the busy summer season while helping to provide hot, nutritious meals to the community,” said Director of Community Services Debbie Paton.

How to Participate:

  • Visit dineoutbham.com for a comprehensive list of participating restaurants.

  • Support these establishments by making reservations, ordering takeout, or purchasing gift cards.

  • Donate directly to Maple Alley Inn at oppco.org/maplealleyinn to sustain their ongoing efforts in feeding the community.

Opportunity Council is a Community Action Agency serving Whatcom, Island, and San Juan Counties since 1965. Through direct services, community development, and collaborative partnerships, the agency strives to eradicate poverty and strengthen the community. Committed to the principles of Community Action, Opportunity Council believes in empowering individuals and fostering a spirit of hope to create a better society for all.

For more information, visit oppco.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

Lorena Shah is director of operations for Opportunity Council.