Loaves and Fishes Food Shelf Experience Positive End to the Year, Serving 100 Families

By: Mary Balstad marybalstad@rjbroadcasting.com

Fosston, MN – The Loaves and Fishes Food Shelf in Fosston has reported a record number of families served in November and December. Sandy Johnson, one of the lead organizers at the food shelf, reported that 100 families were served in both months, ending the year at its peak. Johnson credits the support from the community for the ability to combat food insecurity throughout the year. The rise in prices for goods such as gas increased the demand to assist families. Johnson explains why numbers increase around the holiday season and what the volunteers at the food shelf should expect going into the new year.

This past year has been a different one for the Loaves and Fishes Food Shelf. Due to the ongoing pandemic, volunteers are working more than usual to assist those in need. This includes the new drive-thru system that the food shelf has been working with since the start of the pandemic. It has proven useful and safe, providing the numerous volunteers an opportunity to help at a distance.

Throughout the year multiple organizations have helped keep the shelves stocked. The students at the Fosston Elementary and High School were one group that brought supplies, like toiletries, to the food shelf after conducting a donation drive. Johnson says the immense support keeps the food shelf open and running.

The food shelf is open every first and third Wednesday of the month. As the year comes to a close, the food shelf looks to remain open for next year, as this one was a resounding success.