Providing food for the community one week at a time

In Minnesota, more than 400,000 people are facing hunger. Food banks and food shelves are working to prevent those gaps in the communities.

Cars formed a line in the parking lot of Second Harvest Northern Lakes Food Bank on Tuesday afternoon. Individuals, families, and even the four-legged family member came out during the weekly on-site food shelf. At these weekly food distribution events, around 150 to 180 families in the community receive food.

“We are seeing a higher proportion of children and seniors utilizing our region’s food shelves,” said Moris.

Shaye Moris, Executive Director at Second Harvest Northern Lakes Food Bank, said it is important for the community to know that help is here for them if they need it.

“We want people to feel comfortable requesting food assistance if they need it. We want to create an environment here. And, you know, all of our future partners in northeastern Minnesota, in northwestern Wisconsin want to create an environment where people feel like its neighbors helping neighbors.”

Foodbank leaders understand it can be hard or embarrassing for people to ask for help. Tim Noake is the Food Developer at Second Harvest Northern Lakes Food Bank. He says that there is something important about getting healthy and nutritious food to as many homes as possible.

“Especially when it comes to food insecurity, says I think it is huge, just the fact that we can meet them in that need so they can spend the money that they do have on other things that are important such as bills and utilities.”

Having shelves stocked has provided so much for community members. "They do not judge you! I had to quit my job for medical reasons, and especially if you have a medical reason, it is a reason to come,” says a resident of Superior, Wisconsin.

There are always people ready to help out, no matter what someone’s situation may be. If you would like to donate or volunteer, you can visit the Second Harvest Northern Lakes Food Bank website.