Volunteer

Since the onset of the pandemic, hunger in Minnesota has reached historically high levels. One in eight Minnesotans is experiencing hunger, compared to one in eleven in 2019. We are anticipating the peak need is yet to come this winter. Lost jobs and wages, reduced access to free meals for kids, store closures, fear of shopping because of health concerns, and the loss of support networks all contribute to the increased need.

We are mobilizing groups of volunteers to help pack and sort emergency food in our warehouse – multiple shifts per day, 5 days a week. Click here to learn more and sign up.

Volunteers are required to wear either a fabric or disposable face mask while they are in our facilities. Please wear a mask to your volunteer shift. The Food Group has masks available if you do not have access to one. Volunteers between the ages of 12-16 are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.

SIGN UP HERE

What else can you do to help?

• Make a financial contribution to The Food Group. In this critical time of need, we continue to deliver nutritious, culturally relevant foods to our most vulnerable communities. Your donation allows us to deliver shelf-stable foods and staple items to our food shelf and meal program partners free of charge. Donate here.
• We provide services to over 150 food shelves across MN and western WI. The needs of each food shelf vary due to the diverse communities they serve. The best way you can help right now is to make a monetary donation to a virtual food drive. We operate as a food bank and can utilize our bulk purchasing power to stretch dollars in ways that individuals simply cannot. Please reach out to Talia Miracle to set up your virtual food drive at [email protected] or 763-450-3869.
• The needs of every food shelf are evolving day by day. Some may be requesting household items, specific food items, or simply a monetary donation. Contact your local food shelf directly to find out what they need. Use this map tool to find a food shelf near you.

We Depend on You!

We could not provide our hungry neighbors with good food without you! By donating time, volunteers make a significant difference in the community and to the impact of The Food Group’s work and mission. We, and all those we serve, are grateful for volunteers who join us in providing good food in the good fight against hunger.

There are still nearly 1 in 12 Minnesotans that struggle with food insecurity. If all Minnesotans struggling with food insecurity lived in one place, they’d nearly replace the populations of the cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul combined, according to Hunger Solutions. You can help your neighbors experiencing hunger. Opportunities Include:

 

Warehouse: Opportunities every week for groups and individuals to pack food at our warehouse in New Hope. Learn more here.

Outdoor: Seasonal opportunities to work outside with fresh produce at a variety of locations including The Food Group Farm. Learn more here.

Special Events: These opportunities vary every month but include fundraisers, Walk to End Hunger, family volunteer opportunities, and more. Learn more here.

For volunteer information please email: [email protected]