By SUSAN PARK

If you've ever wondered where the change in the "Make Change Count" coin boxes and scan cards at Fred Meyer goes, you can rest assured - it's been well-spent. Fred Meyer recently gave a check to the new, local North Helpline Food Bank in Lake City. Awarding the check to Food Bank director Rita Anderson were Lake City Fred Meyer manager Lena Street and price auditor Ann Thomas.

The 4-year-old Fred Meyer Foundation periodically awards grants to local community programs in Oregon, Washington, Alaska, Utah and Idaho, totaling $1.8 million to date. Employees also donate to the fund, which assists nonprofit organizations dedicated to helping children and reducing hunger. Fred Meyer is now a division of The Kroger Co., the nation's largest food retailer.

Fred Meyer founder Fred G. Meyer says, "to be a good neighbor, you must strive to be a good neighbor in all ways."

The Food Bank currently operates out of the back of the Lake City Little City Hall at NE 127th Street and 30th Avenue NE. It is still looking for a permanent location on a major bus line.