The Mission
Today, more and more Minnesotans are turning to food shelves for assistance. The number of people visiting a food shelf tripled in the period from 2000 to 2009, from 1 to 3 million people. In 2010, the harsh economy continued to make it difficult for many Minnesotans to eat. The number of people visiting food shelves grew by 28 percent. Estimates indicate that 52 percent of individuals visiting a food shelf have jobs, but are unable to afford to buy groceries. In 2011, hunger needs continue to grow.
At the Emergency Foodshelf Network (EFN), the mission is to provide high quality food and essential support services for hunger relief programs in the community. Established in 1976, EFN is an independent food bank. It serves 230 food shelf and other hunger relief programs in 31 counties throughout Minnesota. In the past year, EFN has provided emergency and supplemental food for more than 2 million individuals.
Our Goal
Our goal in the publication and sale of this book is to finance 100,000 meals available through the Emergency Foodshelf Network. This number of meals would feed the entire city of Rochester, Minnesota.