Food Drive 2026

 

Hunger Action Month Food Drive

Taking Action Against Hunger in Crow Wing County

This Hunger Action Month, Lakes Area United Way is teaming up with the Crow Wing Food Access Coalition to support local families facing tough times.

Right now, local food shelves are seeing more visits than we've seen in a really long time. About 1 in 10 of our neighbors in Crow Wing County are currently experiencing food insecurity. We’re seeing working parents, seniors choosing between groceries and prescriptions, and students balancing tuition with basic needs—many reaching out for help for the very first time.

Together, we can make sure every family in our community has access to healthy, nourishing food. Here is how you can jump in and make a difference this month:

1. Donate Nonperishable Food

Drop off physical food donations at any of our convenient community drop-off sites located across Crow Wing County:

Drop-Off Locations:

  • Brainerd:

    • Essentia Health St. Joseph's Medical Center

    • Crow Wing County Community Services

    • Super One Foods

  • Crosby:

    • Cuyuna Regional Medical Center

    • Super One Foods

  • Pequot Lakes:

    • Super One Foods

  • Baxter:

    • Super One Foods

Most-Needed Items:

  • Canned meats & complete canned meals (stews, chili)

  • Canned vegetables & fruits

  • Peanut butter

  • Boxed meals (macaroni & cheese, rice dishes, side dishes)

  • Baking staples (flour, sugar, spices, cooking oil)

  • Personal care products (toiletries, hygiene items)

2. Make a Financial Donation

Cash donations give our local food shelves maximum flexibility to purchase bulk items and perishable essentials when they need them most.

100% of funds collected by Lakes Area United Way for this drive will be distributed evenly to food shelves and community meal programs across Crow Wing County.

  • Donate Online: Click here to make an online donation.

  • Donate by Mail: Send a check to:

    Lakes Area United Way

    PO Box 381

    Brainerd, MN 56401

    (Please write "Food Drive" in the check memo line)

Have Questions or Want to Get Involved?