Becker County Food Pantry in Detroit Lakes, Minn. (Photo by Karen Downing)
DETROIT LAKES, Minn. (KFGO/KDLM) – The Becker County Food Pantry in Detroit Lakes is seeing record demand.
Director Liz Lilja says November set an all-time high, with 125 households served in a single day and more than 1,700 people served throughout the month. December remained busy as well, feeding about 1,600 people.
According to Lilja, some USDA food sources that previously supplemented their supply at no cost have dried up. However, the food pantry has always purchased the majority of its food from North Country Food Bank, spending about $25,000 a month.
Lilja credits North Country for sourcing products affordably, helping the pantry stretch every dollar. When weekly fresh produce drops ended, North Country provided the produce themselves, allowing the pantry to continue offering it.
Local grocery stores are also playing a key role. Aldi, Walmart and Central Market donate food, and Central Market has stepped up even more to help cover the gap left by the USDA.
Lilja says community generosity has been remarkable, with more local food drives and individual donations. A core group of about 25 volunteers keeps the food pantry running every week.
Located at 610 Terry Street in Detroit Lakes, the Becker County Food Pantry is open from noon to 3 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Clients may shop once a month.
Comments