Food shelf visits in Minnesota have surged to record levels.
This dramatic increase reflects the growing strain on households as food costs
remain high and critical safety-net programs face uncertainty. In recent years,
as changes and challenges to SNAP benefits and other federal supports
were debated and implemented, food shelves experienced ripple effects, with an
even greater number of neighbors turning to charitable food assistance to
fill widening gaps.Manna Market, located in Spring Lake Park, Minnesota, is one of the state’s largest food-rescue ministries. We recover surplus food from grocery stores, restaurants, and farms—food that is still edible but would otherwise go to waste. Along with rescued food, we regularly receive free or very low-cost food through partnerships with other organizations and food banks. Each week our volunteers sort, pack, and distribute over 100,000 pounds of food, most of it rescued.
Our mission is to be good stewards of the abundance God blesses this country with, build community through the distribution of rescued food, and provide opportunities for people to grow in the Christian faith.
We recently expanded our model by strengthening partnerships with churches, schools, and community organizations that families already trust. Instead of relying primarily on families traveling to our location, we began delivering food directly to partner locations closer to where people live. Through this growing network of more than 35 community partners, Manna Market now helps reach over 4,000 families each week (varies by week, with over 5,000 being our highest).
We’d love to have you serve with us in the Bulk Room! We’re especially looking for volunteers who can come consistently, as it helps build a rhythm and makes the process smoother for everyone. We are currently needing Monday and Wednesday mornings only.
Tasks include packing produce into boxes, prepping and taping boxes, stacking, and loading onto pallets. Every role helps us serve our community well!
