In our community, more neighbors are turning to CEAP than ever before. The need for food has risen immensely, and families, individuals, and seniors are trying to navigate these higher costs and making difficult decisions just try to make ends meet.
At CEAP, we believe no one should face these challenges alone. As the need grows, we’re focusing even more of our efforts on making sure our neighbors have access to fresh, nourishing food with the help of our amazing donors and volunteers.
The numbers tell part of the story:
- In 2026 alone, CEAP has seen a 106% increase in first-time Food Market visitors.
- 1 in 5 families in Minnesota experience food insecurity.
- 1 in 3 Households with children lack regular access to nutritious food.
Behind every statistic is a neighbor with their own story, experience and reason for reaching out for support. We asked some of our Food Market and Meals on Wheels participants to share what CEAP means to them:
- “It means so much. I work, but every month I seem to be short because everything is increasing in price. Electric, gas, food, insurance. It's hard to keep up” -Tara, Food Market Participant
- “CEAP has provided me with fresh food and groceries, instilling renewed dignity while struggling financially.” -Sheila, Food Market Participant
- “It truly makes a whole difference when it comes to making something to eat quickly that is good and filling.” -Brenda, Meals on Wheels Participant
- “It is very hard to care for an elderly disabled person with dementia. Meals on Wheels really helps because it eliminates the stress of having to make a healthy meal each day. Finances are very tight so it helps out there too.” -Anonymous, Family Member of a Meals on Wheels Participant
Access to nutritious food is about more than having something to eat. It gives people the nourishment they need to care for themselves, their families and their communities.
That’s why CEAP is placing an even greater focus on food access this year. From fresh groceries at the Food Market to balanced, tailored meals from Meals on Wheels, we’re working hard to nourish our neighbors.
CEAP has responded to increased need this year by:
- Raising more than $135,000 and 130,500 pounds of food during CEAP Community Challenge.
- Serving up to 120 additional families a week during the height of Operation Metro Surge.
- Connecting our neighbors with additional resources.
We know CEAP can’t do this work alone and that’s where our community comes in. Every food drive, volunteer shift, grocery donation, financial gift and partnership is a way to share abundance and extend a hand to our neighbors. We’re deeply grateful to the volunteers, donors and community partners who make it possible for CEAP to keep showing up as the need continues to grow. And with the holiday season ahead, we know even more neighbors will need support.
As we look toward the holiday season, CEAP is preparing for our annual Season of Sharing—a time when our community comes together to nourish neighbors and make sure people have the food and support they need. With the need continuing to grow, there are more ways than ever to make a difference.
Join us in extending a hand. Give to the Max Day on November 19 is one opportunity to help us stock the shelves, or you can get involved by hosting a food or fund drive, volunteering your time, making a financial gift or finding another way to support CEAP during Season of Sharing. Together, we can keep nourishing food on tables and make sure our neighbors have a welcoming place to turn when they need us.
