Impact and Programs
Accomplishments
The White Bear Area Food Shelf has served as a critical resource for families experiencing food insecurity since 1977. Providing food and support to over 3,600 households each month, it works toward eliminating barriers that have traditionally limited access to healthy food for families living on a low or fixed income. In FY23 (Oct 2022-Sept 2023), WBAFS provided fresh produce, frozen meat, dairy products, bakery and staple dry goods to 134,692 people.
Powered by 1,792 community volunteers, the Curbside Pick-Up Market is the most popular market at WBAFS. Open 5 days a week, all are welcome, regardless of residence, and people are encouraged to visit as often as needed. In FY23, 23,549 households visited the Curbside Pick-Up Market. Beyond food, staff connect families to partner organizations for additional services like rental assistance and mental health support.
Additional distribution programs are designed to meet the unique needs of different populations. Mobile markets provide onsite fresh groceries at three senior apartment buildings in White Bear Lake every month. Students from kindergarten through college can receive food support through programs tailored to them. Three hundred elementary students receive KidPacks with supplemental snacks and meals for the weekend. Middle school and high school students at five area schools can access onsite food pantries with snacks and easy to cook staples. Century College students shop the free grocery mobile market set up in the main commons every month during the school year.
Current Goals
WBAFS’s goals are: To consistently and predictably offer healthy and culturally-connected food that is accessible to all so neighbors in the White Bear Lake Area can have security in feeding themselves and their families; To increase financial, staffing (including volunteers), and sourcing capacity to sustain daily operations to continue to meet the high level of need in the community; To implement community partnerships at our new site, The Community Market, and continue to expand the number of collaborations as needed.
Community or Constituency Served
Individuals and families experiencing food insecurity.
Geographic Area Served
White Bear Lake, MN and surrounding areas.
