In 1982, representatives of local churches and social service agencies started a temporary emergency food program for the needy. They envisioned the program to last about five years. The first meeting to discuss the possibility of establishing a food shelf was held February 22, 1982. On April 28, 1982 the plan was announced to the public. To everyone’s surprise donations of money, food, equipment came pouring in. On July 6, 1982 articles of incorporation was signed.

The first home for WAFS was located at 411 Becker Ave SW. In May of 1986 the food shelf moved to 106 Sixth St SW and in November 2006 it moved to 624 Pacific Ave SW, where it currently resides.

In the first year approximately 60 households were served per month.  An average of 833 households were served per month in 2012, an increase of nearly 10% over 2011.

In September 2009 WAFS openned a branch office in the "old clinic" in New London. Both locations continue to see the number of families and individuals being served increase from year to year.

Past and Current Directors:
 

Agnes Johnson	1982 - 1997
Cinda Carlson	1997 - 2000
Vicki Tews	2000 - 2005
Christie Kurth	2005 - Current