Who We Are | Emily Food Shelf

VISION

We envision a community where people don't just survive but thrive thanks to the kindness and generosity of our community and involvement of other area resource providers helping to meet the basic needs of all.

MISSION

The Emily Food Shelf provides food assistance to neighbors in need, bridging the gap between emergency assistance and long-term self-sufficiency, and partners with the community and other human service providers to connect them with the resources to address root issues of food insecurity.

KINDNESS

We believe in the power of KINDNESS. It is the underpinning of our work and all visitors to the food shelf will be treated with the dignity and respect everyone deserves.

GENEROSITY

We believe in the power of GENEROSITY to mobilize a caring community. We never Lose sight that the Food Shelf is powered by volunteers, donors, staff, and resource partners combining forces to support people in times of need.

A HAND UP

We believe in the power of a HANDSHAKE and·a HAND-UP to help our struggling Neighbors Lift themselves up in the knowledge that they are part of a caring community and not alone.

STEWARDSHIP

We believe in the power of GOOD STEWARDSHIP and use our every resource wisely to make long-lasting change for our organization and community.

GRATEFULNESS

We believe in the power of a GRATEFUL HEART and have faith that to give and serve and receive and be served are all gifts for which to be thankful.

PARTNERSHIP

We believe in the power of PARTNERSHIP knowing that no individual or organization can do the work of community-building alone but can, when they come together and coordinate efforts, help all members thrive.

Established in 1981, Emily Food Shelf has a long history of providing food access to their friends and neighbors in need. However, in the last few years, with the rising cost of food, household items, and gas, the need is greater than it has been in a long time. With Emily being in a rural location it is difficult for many to access the resources necessary to help fill the gaps many families face today. Emily Food Shelf has taken on this challenge to fill as many gaps as possible for their friends and neighbors.

In 2022 Emily Food Shelf began to evaluate community needs while consulting with organizations like Second Harvest North Central Food Bank, Crow Wing Energized, Bridges of Hope and the University of Minnesota Extension Office of Brainerd. Since then big goals have been achieved, including:

Increase food access through increased open hours
Provide the healthiest food options possible
Continue to break down the stigma that is often associated with utilizing a food shelf
On-site Resource Specialist visits
Plans for Resource Center in 2025

Remodel of exterior of food shelf building