Link Of Northern Kandiyohi County

Food pantry program: the link operates a food shelf and provides food to people facing hunger. The program is partnered with second harvest heartland and operates a free choice model- serving anyone from anywhere facing hunger. This program is funded through the support of grants and contributions from foundaitons, the united way, churches, businesses, community groups and individual donors. Additionally, many businesses, churches, the local school and individuals have given donations of food to support this effort. In 2024, the links food pantry served 2,232 households, including 671 seniors, 2,270 children and 3,699 adults and distributed 132,662 pounds of food. The links volunteers donate approximately 2,000 hours each year to ensure this program runs smoothly

Client services & outreach program: assistance is provided to people in need to meet basic needs such as housing, utilities, medical necessities, and transportation expenses. The link provides financial resources only when other resources have been leveraged and does not duplicate., it is a fill the gap organization. Each year 100-250 households receive services through the client services and outreach program. An additional aspect of this program includes outreach efforts to raise awareness of poverty in the community and engage people in meeding those needs- speaking to local service providers, churches, businesses, youth, schools, civic organizations to build awareness of the links programs and to better meet the needs of people in poverty. This activity is funded through the support of grants and contributions of foundations, the united way, churches, businesses, community groups and individual donors.

Other programs including - wildcat backpack program: providing meals for students who are at-risk of hunger, especially over the weekend. The link provides each student with a backpack of food for the weekend. Served 140 kids and 5,240 lbs of food in 2024. - the snack pantry: the link partners with local school district to provide food during the school day to students who may have struggles in school related to food scarcity. Provided 30 teachers with snacks for classrooms in 2024. - tuesday's table: a weekly community meal focused on providing food and fellowship across socioeconomic lines. Served 6,670 meals in 2024. - household exchange: receive donations of household goods which are then provided to people in need in the community.