The Community Food Bank of Mineral County had humble beginnings back in 1990. Roselyn Duncan joined the nonprofit when it operated from a clothing store basement and had less than $10 in its bank account.
In those early days, volunteers carried bags of food up steep steps to those in need outside. Food drives were held once a year in October, often with help from local Boy Scouts. “We were completely dependent on local support,” Duncan, who now serves as the food bank’s secretary, treasurer, and fundraising coordinator, recalled. At that time, they were not connected with the Montana Food Bank Network.
The food bank actually started over 30 years ago in a Methodist church and has moved seven times since its inception. “We rented, begged, and borrowed for space,” Duncan said, reflecting on the challenges of finding suitable locations over the years.
Currently located at the Masonic Temple on Pine Street in Superior, the bank is still facing space issues. They have freezers and refrigerators scattered around town in homes and garages. However, things are set to change soon.
A new 2,200-square-foot building is set to open downtown, providing the food bank with a permanent home featuring ample storage space. Duncan envisions regular cooking classes and community events in the new facility.
This property, which previously housed the Montana Bar, cost $180,000 to buy, with a downpayment of $50,000 saved by the nonprofit. A grand opening is slated for April, and Duncan is eager to finally have a place to call home.
Mineral County’s food bank is critical for local residents, serving around 25% of the county’s population. In 2025, it supported 1,375 clients across 656 households. Over 19,400 pounds of food were distributed, averaging about 30 pounds per household.
Amidst a growing need, the food bank is bracing for changes in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The recent “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” increased the work requirement age from 55 to 65. This new regulation kicks in on February 1, causing concern for many volunteers about its impact on older residents in an area with limited job opportunities.
“It might work in big cities, but here, jobs are often taken,” said assistant manager Shana Williams. “We’re worried about our older clients.” Additionally, areas with fewer jobs no longer qualify for waivers under the new guidelines unless they have an unemployment rate above 10%.
As of June 2025, about 600 people in Mineral County receive SNAP benefits, including 216 children, totaling about 11% of the county’s population.
In November, the food bank saw a surge in clients after SNAP benefits were temporarily cut during a government shutdown. They assisted 33 new households, distributing 2,880 pounds of food, significantly more than in previous months.
While the food bank faces financial challenges, it secured $700,000 in a Community Development Block Grant for the new facility. Local businesses have also stepped up, donating amounts from $1,000 to $5,000.
In Duncan’s words, “Mineral County has always been incredibly supportive. If folks can donate, they do.” Their funding strategy also includes scout missions to find deals, like a recent trip to gather bread and onions from a nearby city.
Operating a food bank isn’t cheap. In 2024 alone, the food bank spent $24,000 on food, averaging $2,000 monthly. They work hard to manage costs while meeting their community’s needs. Currently, they’re still paying off a $128,000 loan from Trail West Bank used to purchase the lot for the new building.
Despite financial pressures, Duncan remains optimistic. “We’re determined to make this work,” she said. “We won’t lose a penny more than necessary.”
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