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   Every March, Minnesotans band together in the biggest annual effort to raise money for food shelves across the state. The Longville Area Food Shelf is once again participating in GMCC’s (Greater Minneapolis Council of Churches) Minnesota FoodShare March Campaign, running from Sunday, March 1, 2026 – Monday, April 6, 2026.  Donations made during this time count toward our 2026 MN FoodShare Campaign.  The more that is raised locally, the larger the share of the statewide campaign funds which will come directly to the Longville Area Food Shelf (LAFS).

   Over the past several years, the Longville Area Food Shelf has consistently communicated a sense of urgency as we surpass previous records in both food distribution and individuals served. It is necessary to recognize that this situation now represents our ongoing reality.

   In 2026, our food shelf usage increased by another 26%.  We served 380 households. These households visited us a total of 2,552 times, averaging 213 families per month. We distributed 187,195 pounds of food. We also helped 31 families with emergency assistance for things like rent, shelter, heat, and more.   

   For the past two years, due to less availability, we were only able to purchase less than half of our food from Second Harvest (the Minnesota Food Bank who supplies food at discounted prices). We have had to find other sources of healthy foods that are more expensive. This is causing our food costs to increase significantly.  

   Food shelves are experiencing a significant rise in demand, and initiatives such as this are essential for enabling us to respond effectively to community needs. We kindly request your support for the Longville Area Food Shelf through a donation, allowing us to continue heling individuals in our region.

   About the Longville Area Food Shelf:

The Longville Area Food Shelf opened in 1997 in the basement of a funeral home in Longville.  In 2000 a “clothing depot” was added.   This clothing depot slowly evolved, and in 2007 Tossed & Found Boutique opened its doors.  Tossed & Found supports the Longville Area Food Shelf and our community by offering quality, gently used merchandise and an extraordinary shopping experience. The proceeds from the Tossed & Found pay 100% of the overhead costs for the Food Shelf.  This means that 100% of all donated money is used exclusively for food and emergency assistance to our food shelf shoppers.

   We have a lofty goal this year to raise $60,000 during the March Food Share Campaign.  You can help us to reach this goal by making a gift to the Longville Area Food Shelf. Donations can be mailed to PO Box 308, Longville, MN 56655, dropped off at the Food Shelf or Tossed & Found, or make an online donation at GiveMN.com.

   We are sincerely thankful for your ongoing support. Our ability to assist families in need is made possible by the kindness and generosity of our community, neighbors, and friends. Thank you for standing by us!

Andrea Richard, 

Executive Director

PH 218-507-5224

e-mail: [email protected]

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