Loaves and Fishes Too

MISSION STATEMENT

To provide nutritious meals to people in need in an atmosphere of dignity and hospitality.

PROGRAMS

Congregate Dining

Our flagship program serves nutritious meals at dining sites to anyone in need. Meals are prepared and served by site coordinators with help from volunteers or volunteer teams.

Over 20 Congregate Dining Sites across Minnesota:

Aitkin

Bloomington

Brooklyn Park

Coon Rapids

Crystal

Eagan

Hopkins

Inver Grove Heights

Marshall

Minneapolis

Richfield

St. Paul

Shakopee

Street Outreach

By using our food truck and vans, we are successfully distributing food staples like sandwiches, soups, fruits and vegetables at locations where homeless people gather and sleep.

Community Meal Program

Mutually beneficial collaborative partnerships with other established nonprofit organizations that address societal issues outside of hunger. Through these partnerships we serve children, those in recovery, women and many more.

Free Produce Markets

In partnership with Second Harvest Heartland, we receive pallets of produce and distribute it, free to individuals providing fresh fruits and vegetables to community residents who otherwise could not afford such items.

Summer Food Service & After-School Program

Summertime is our busiest season. We provide nutritious meals to children when school is out. Our after-school program maintains our focus on children during the school year, providing them with nutritious snacks and dinner while attending after-school education programs.

Farm for All

Loaves & Fishes is growing fresh produce at five locations across the Twin Cities. An excellent opportunity to volunteer outside, on the weekends, or for large groups. 

Zero Percent

A program dedicated to eliminating excess cafeteria waste. Loaves and Fishes partners with number of companies, schools and universities to capture food that otherwise would be tossed out.

HOW TO VOLUNTEER

CONGREGATE DINING SITES

Volunteers work at Loaves & Fishes dining sites in the kitchen and/or dining room area/s. We require volunteers wear close-toed shoes and recommend volunteers wear washable, comfortable clothing and avoid wearing or bringing personal items of great value. Hair restraints, aprons and gloves, required for food handling and any work done in the kitchen, are provided for you at the site. If preferred, volunteers may bring their own hat and apron. All kitchen equipment is provided, including wares and utensils for cooking, serving, and dining.

As an Individual or Sporadic Volunteer Team

Individuals are invited to work with our dining sites to help in any of the ways described on the previous page. Individuals completing service learning hours or community service are welcomed. Individuals are can sign up to volunteer through our website: http://www.loavesandfishesmn.org/volunteer.html.

As a Recurring Team

Volunteer teams are usually made up of 8-15 members. Teams can choose to volunteer for a onetime opportunity or on a regular, ongoing basis. Teams have the option of sourcing and purchasing all food for their meal or providing a donation to the program. Our estimated cost per plate is $2.50, a donation of any amount to help cover a portion of the cost is welcomed. Teams that wish to volunteer on an ongoing basis are asked to connect with our Director of Volunteers (volunteer@loavesandfishesmn.org) to schedule a recurring opportunity.

FARM FOR ALL

Loaves and Fishes operates five farms/working gardens. Farms are located in Coon Rapids, St. Paul, Richfield and Eagan. Opportunities available Spring - Fall. Tasks include everything from preparing soil, tilling, seedig, weeding and harvesting. If interested, contact our Farm For All Farm Manager at farmforall@loavesandfishesmn.org.