MEDFORD, Ore. — An organization born from the ashes of the Almeda Fire and dedicated to feeding the displaced has received a contract from the state of Oregon to continue, even expand, that mission.

Rogue Food Unites coordinates with local restaurants and food producers, volunteers, aid organizations to prepare and deliver food for the thousands of people who lost their homes.

"We are, at heart, our community's economic stimulus," said Adam Danforth, founder of Rogue Food Unites. "We enable the circulation of revenue by involving local restaurants and keeping the money here. At the same time, supporting our community nutritionally and emotionally through food."

The state contract that RFU received covers not only Jackson County, but Josephine, Klamath, Douglas and Deschutes counties as well. The group says that it needs local support, volunteers, funding, and more restaurants to accomplish its mission.

“Rogue Food Unites is a critical partner with the Jackson County Feeding Task Force to ensure that no person goes without food during this local emergency. Their business model supports our local survivors, while helping local businesses stay afloat while operating under COVID-19 restrictions,” said Steve Lambert with Jackson County Emergency Operations.

Local restaurants like Curbside King and El Tapatio are part of the effort in Jackson County, whipping up thousands of meals for residents displaced by the Almeda Fire.

Rogue Food Unites gets financial supprt through the United Way, and recently received a grant from the Rogue Credit Union wildfire fund. If you'd like to contribute to RFU, you can visit the group's website to donate.