The Initiative Foundation recently awarded $100,000 in grants to 18 rural food shelves across central Minnesota. This funding comes to help these communities cope with rising food costs and increased demand. Recipients included the Pine River-Backus Family Center, Hackensack Area Food Shelf, and Emily Food Shelf.
The Initiative Foundation focused on the smallest and most in-need food shelves. They aimed to provide support where it could make the biggest impact. “These food shelves are essential lifelines in their communities,” said Amy Trombley, the foundation’s vice president. The goal is to help these organizations continue meeting urgent needs.
Food shelves are seeing many new visitors, including older adults living on fixed incomes. Andrea Richard, executive director of the Longville Area Food Shelf, highlighted a drop in resources from larger organizations. The grant will help them buy more dairy products and fresh produce. “Food insecurity has far-reaching effects, from health issues to educational challenges,” she noted.
In rural areas, accessing fresh and affordable food can be tougher due to fewer grocery stores and limited transportation. John Ryder, secretary of the Emily Food Shelf, shared that they recently partnered with local food providers like Sysco and Dollar General to secure discounted or donated food. They’ve also started a summer meal program for students and maintain a garden for fresh produce.
Many experts, including community leaders and food security advocates, stress that proactive measures are crucial for tackling food insecurity. According to a recent report by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, food insecurity rates rose significantly in 2022, especially among rural communities.
Ryder expressed gratitude for the Initiative Foundation’s support, stating, “This grant will seriously impact our organization.” The commitment to help these food shelves is a vital step in addressing the growing food insecurity within these communities.
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