Hastings Family Service (HFS) is excited to share this year’s Minnesota FoodShare March Campaign raised a record-high overall total of food and funds to fight local hunger. Just over $185,000 and 40,360 pounds of food were donated to help HFS carry out its mission of providing help and hope for neighbors. The amount raised will make an even greater impact by receiving a proportionate match from MN FoodShare.
This year’s campaign, which took place Feb. 26 through April 6, was the largest-ever for HFS in part due to increased food and care item donations. The campaign got off to a strong start led by the Hastings High School National Honor Society’s annual food drive, which recently changed its event timing from Halloween to MN FoodShare. NHS collected 5,000 pounds of food and $1,800 throughout the community.
In addition to an increase in food collected, a gift of $35,000 from the Ruth Gale and George W. Doffing Charitable Fund and a record-setting $27,000 raised from Hastings Tastings bolstered the community impact.
These banner gifts come at a time when the Market food programs at HFS are experiencing unprecedented growth. The number of families served with a full food order has more than doubled in the past two years, and the number of people served across all food programs continues to rise.
HFS is grateful to the Hastings community, businesses, schools, faith communities, service organizations, and all volunteers, supporters, and donors for partnering with HFS to fight hunger. HFS Executive Director, Amy Sutton, shared, “We are grateful and amazed that during challenging economic times, the Hastings community has once again stepped up so generously to meet the needs for so many struggling to put food on their tables. That we can come alongside our neighbors with nutritious and healthy foods is vital, and it allows our organization to offer other supports in addition to food, ensuring all in our community can thrive.”
To receive food assistance or to make a gift of food or funds, contact HFS at 651-437-7134 or visit hastingsfamilyservice.org for information.
-Hastings Family Service
