ABOUT THE FOOD SHELF
2025 marks 43 years of serving Bemidji and the surrounding communities. What began as a small downtown storefront with a few dedicated volunteers has grown into a lifeline for thousands of people each year.
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If you are in need of assistance, please click here to learn more.
In 2024 alone, we saw a 12% increase in need—serving 13,000 families, or 42,000 individuals, with over 1 million pounds of food distributed. Among them were 850 families visiting us for the very first time.
This work is only possible because of the people who stand with us. More than 300 volunteers give their time, energy, and compassion to help their neighbors, and we welcome anyone who wants to join them—there’s a role for every ability. If you’d like to learn more, please call our Volunteer Coordinator at 218-444-6580 or visit our volunteer page here for more information.
We are also deeply grateful to our donors. Because we purchase two-thirds of the food we distribute, their generosity is essential to meeting the needs of our community. Learn more about donating goods here.
To our volunteers, donors, and community members: thank you. The Bemidji Community Food Shelf exists—and continues to grow—because of you.
MEET OUR TEAM
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BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The Bemidji Community Food Shelf Board of Directors is made up of caring neighbors who are deeply committed to strengthening our community.
Our board offers thoughtful leadership, fresh ideas, and steady guidance to help ensure we can continue showing up with compassion, dignity, and hope for everyone who walks through our doors.
2025 Board of Directors
John Reff, President
Heidi Adamson-Bear, Vice President
Deborah Pfaff, Treasurer
Gloria Collyard, Secretary
Janet Berg, Board Member
Lindsay Little, Board Member
Jim Hodgson, Board Member
Len Ochowicz, Board Member
Derek Stout, Board Member
Interested in making a meaningful impact in our community?
We welcome applications from community members who feel called to serve on the Bemidji Community Food Shelf Board of Directors. Board members bring their experience, passion, and ideas to help guide our mission. Terms are three years, with the option to serve up to two terms. Please click here to review the Board Member Description and position expectations.
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Please note: Applications are reviewed as openings arise, and we’ll contact applicants whose skills align with current board needs.
Ready to apply?
Click below to download the application. Completed applications should be dropped off during business hours or mailed to the Bemidji Community Food Shelf. We look forward to hearing from you!
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