Minnesota FoodShare Month: Fighting Hunger Across the State in 2026

Minnesota’s annual FoodShare Month, officially the March Campaign, is set to run from March 1st to April 6th, 2026, aiming to restock food shelves statewide and combat food insecurity. For 45 years, this initiative led by the Greater Minneapolis Council of Churches (GMCC) has mobilized communities, businesses, and individuals to support those in need.

The Impact of the March Campaign

The Minnesota FoodShare March Campaign is the largest grassroots food and fund drive in the state, bringing together nearly 300 food shelves each year. The campaign focuses on both collecting food donations and raising funds, with the GMCC providing a partial match for monetary contributions through the Minnesota FoodShare FoodFund. This means every $25 donated can provide the equivalent of $100 worth of food.

Rising Food Shelf Demand

Food shelves across Minnesota are experiencing increased demand. The Bemidji Community Food Shelf, for example, has already seen over 2,000 visits in the first two months of 2026 and projects distributing more than one million pounds of food by year-conclude – a record high. Local news sources highlight the critical role of these donations in meeting the growing needs of the community.

How the FoodFund Works

The Minnesota FoodShare FoodFund redistributes dollars raised based on each community’s fundraising efforts and the number of individuals served. This system ensures that communities with greater need receive more support. Generous donations unlock additional funding that returns to local food shelves, maximizing the impact of every contribution. CROSS Services explains how this funding cycle strengthens local support systems.

Ways to Get Involved

• Donate Financially: Contributions made through the GMCC’s FoodShare website or directly to local food shelves are partially matched during the campaign.
• Donate Food: Organize a food drive with family, friends, or colleagues. The Aliveness Project suggests contacting them at 612-822-7946 ext. 207 or [email protected] for materials and support.
• Volunteer Time: Food shelves rely on volunteers to sort, pack, and distribute food.
• Spread Awareness: Share information about food insecurity in Minnesota and the importance of supporting FoodShare Month.

Expanded Access at the Bemidji Community Food Shelf

To better serve the community, the Bemidji Community Food Shelf will initiate offering extended evening hours starting in April 2026. The food shelf will be open one Monday evening each month from 5-7 P.M., in addition to its regular hours of Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10 A.M. To 3 P.M.

Looking Ahead

Minnesota FoodShare Month remains a vital initiative in addressing food insecurity across the state. By uniting communities and leveraging the power of the FoodFund, the March Campaign provides critical support to food shelves and ensures that Minnesotans have access to the nourishment they need. Minnesota FoodShare continues to advocate for policies that address poverty and food insecurity at the local, state, and national levels.