Headline: Fuel the Strategy that feeds families across Minnesota
Before the shutdown, food shelves were facing record demand — and FFEN saw many sites, run solely by volunteers or a single staff member, looking for a partner to provide guidance, support and solutions.
Then, as the uncertainty of November SNAP benefit payments drove more people than ever to food shelves, those food shelves turned to FFEN.
“When food shelves needed specific answers, guidance and support, FFEN stepped up, quickly expanding one-on-one sessions and creating new tools to help food shelves manage ongoing stressors,” said Kate Burggraff, FFEN’s executive director.
FFEN’s work is building strong, resilient food shelves, armed with the data and tools to manage their operations and sustain them into the future.
One of the most powerful ways FFEN strengthens food shelves each and every year, is through smarter sourcing — helping food shelves make every dollar and every delivery count.
During the month of October, FFEN met with leaders from 134 food shelves – roughly one-third of food shelves in the state, to get a pulse on their programs and provide tailored reports that focus on their food mix and budget. With your help, we plan to expand our reach in 2026. These reports help leaders source food wisely, build stronger vendor relationships, and feed more families.
Last week, for example, FFEN staff worked alongside a small, volunteer-run food shelf in Central Minnesota struggling with limited space and growing demand. The food shelf leader there was working solo and was overwhelmed with questions. After thoughtful consultation with FFEN staff, she left with a clear plan, new vendor connections, and renewed confidence to serve her community.
With your support, FFEN has been responding by:
- Stabilizing operations at food shelves to reduce food interruptions with prompt technical support and on-site assessments.
- Supporting overwhelmed food shelf leaders with one-on-one coaching, weekly connection, and new tools like a de-escalation guide.
- Ensuring consistent access to fresh, healthy food through smarter sourcing and logistics support.
This is the work your generosity makes possible.
Behind every strong food shelf is more than food — it’s logistics, data, partnerships, and planning. When you support FFEN this Give to the Max Day, you’re fueling the strategy that ensures Minnesotans can access the food they need — today and tomorrow.
