For the fourth year in a row the Missoula Parking Commission will accept non-perishable food items to pay for parking fines in the ‘Food for Fines’ Program.

Interim Missoula Parking Commission Director Tiffany Brander said on Wednesday that the program has become extremely popular as it benefits the Missoula Food Bank.

“As part of that program we will be offering a reduction of your parking account balance with donated non-perishable food items,” said Brander. “Starting Friday, November 1st and continuing through the month, excluding Veterans Day on November 11th and the Thanksgiving holiday on November 28th our office will be open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and we will be accepting non-perishable food items for a reduction in fines for folks.”

Brander explained the rate of exchange in food for fines.

“Every item that is donated will count for two dollars off the balance of the vehicle, so if they want to bring in five items they will get ten dollars off, and as always, if people want to bring in more food, then we’re more than happy to get that over to the food bank and just take the donation,” she said. “We’re always happy to make what could be a negative experience with a parking ticket become positive when food can be used to pay the fines.”

 

Following, please find items the Missoula Food Bank needs the most:

Canned tuna or meat

  • Peanut butter
  • Canned fruits (in juice)
  • Canned vegetables (low/no sodium)
  • Low-fat salad dressings
  • Canned chili
  • Cooking oil
  • Tomato sauce
  • Canned beans
  • Shelf-stable milk
  • Oatmeal
  • Canned soups (low sodium)
  • Pasta
  • Baby formula
  • Baby food
  • Whole-grain items
  • Gluten-free items
  • Low sodium/low sugar items

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