The Grand Marais Post 413 Sons of the American Legion have answered the call to assist the Cook County Food Shelf. On November 22, the Sons donated a check for $350, but after hearing that there was still a great need, they decided to give more. On Tuesday, December 14, David Johnson, representing the Sons of the American Legion, dropped off another donation of $400 to the Cook County Food Shelf. Accepting the donation is Food Shelf Volunteer Gwen Lenz. In addition to financial and food donations, the food shelf is also in need of a small refrigerator. If you would like to help the local food shelf meet its needs, contact food shelf volunteer Bill Lenz at (218) 387-9860.
Sometimes situations come up such as unexpected medical bills, reduced work hours, or even unemployment. The Cook County Food Shelf is there to help out in these situations. If you are facing an unexpected budgetary crisis, the Food Shelf can supply a box that supplies three nutritious meals for three days.
However, the Food Shelf is not intended to be used on a regular basis to stretch a family’s household budget. If a family has an ongoing financial shortfall every month, leaving them unable to purchase food, they are encouraged to contact Cook County Public Health and Human Services at (218) 387-3620.
Food Shelf volunteer Gwen Lenz said, “There is always a need for emergency food assistance, so donations are always welcome.”
Donations can be dropped off at the Cook County Whole Foods Co-op, Johnson’s Foods, St. John’s Church, Bethlehem Church and the First Congregational Church. All items are welcomed, although the Cook County Food Shelf tries to promote nutrition.
Financial donations are also happily accepted and may be mailed to Food Shelf, P.O. Box 95, Grand Marais 55604.
The Cook County Food Shelf is located in the First Congregational Church at Third Ave. W. and Second Street. It is open 3:00 – 5:00 p.m. every Monday. There are also food distribution sites in Grand Portage and at Zoar Lutheran Church in Tofte.
For more information or to volunteer with the Cook County Food Shelf, contact Bill Lenz (218) 387-9860.
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