HAMPDEN – Two years ago, Oasis Food Bank moved from Waldo County to Hampden, where it is being operated out of a garage at 72 Laskey Lane. Because demand for the food bank’s services is growing, Oasis volunteers are seeking a more centrally located distribution site.

Oasis serves more than 2,000 people in need each month in Searsport, Knox, Carmel and Hampden. The client load has increased by 110 percent since last year, said Clarence Merchant II, senior director of Oasis, and Donna Merchant, associate director.

The Oasis “foodmobile” delivers food to the sick and elderly. Its hours are 9-11 a.m. Mondays, including holidays. In addition to food, Oasis provides personal hygiene items, blankets and coats. Oasis volunteers travel throughout New England to bring food and commodities back to Maine.

Oasis supports the Kings’ Daughters Home, Shaw House, Stone Soup Kitchen and other food pantries in the region. Oasis also serves those in need on an emergency basis when referred by town officials or by word of mouth.

Prevailing Winds Ministries established the food bank in 1997 in Belfast to serve the needs of Waldo and Penobscot counties. Oasis is a nonprofit organization staffed by volunteers.

Currently, Oasis needs to raise $6,000 to bring a load of food, laundry soap, paper products and other items, valued at $50,000, to Maine. The agency also needs volunteers to unload trucks, stock shelves, break down cartons, make dump runs and deliver food. Other needs include canned goods, a walk-in cooler and financial support.

To learn more about Oasis, call 862-4287 or write Oasis Food Project, P.O. Box 446, Hampden 04444.