In 2023, ACBC Food Shelf experienced record-breaking numbers of people seeking food assistance.
Hunger continues to be prevalent in our community for a variety of reasons. Inflation, economic disruptions, unexpected emergencies, growing number of older adults seeking food assistance, and low wages are among the barriers for economic stability.
Last year, community support, combined with feedback from a participant survey, provided ACBC with the opportunity to increase and expand access to services.
As a result,
- Appointment availability increased by 30 percent.
- Access to fresh produce increased through bi-monthly produce distributions.
- Thrift store hours were expanded.
- New partnerships were formed with senior centers for people to shop and socialize.
- Mobile delivery increased to underserved areas of Anoka County.
To continue to improve services to reflect the increasing needs in the community, ACBC is planning on focusing on several capacity building strategies in 2024.
- Adding more appointments for families to access food and other necessities.
- Improve shopper/volunteer experience and increase our energy efficiency.
- Expanding deliveries in our community with a focus on providing fresh produce and food to underserved communities in Anoka County.
- Upgrading technology to serve families quicker and improve language barriers.
- Opening the thrift store to the public to provide more options for families, while still providing free clothing vouchers to anyone coming in for food shelf visits.
- Accessing additional opportunities to source more food and financial donations to feed the growing number of people in the community seeking assistance.
“Because of the support of our team of volunteers, donors, and community partners, we have maintained our warm, welcoming environment at ACBC,” Executive Director Stephanie Lehman said. “Without our community, our mission would not be possible. Every little bit makes a big impact in the lives of our participants.”