SNAP Benefits Update
11/17/25
Update from the BCFS Board of Directors
We are relieved to share that the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) has now been funded through September 2026, ensuring stability for thousands of Minnesotans who rely on these vital benefits.
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At Bemidji Community Food Shelf (BCFS), we witnessed firsthand how uncertainty surrounding the federal shutdown impacted families across our region. During the first week of November, BCFS experienced record numbers of households seeking food assistance—serving 372 families in one week, with a single-day record of 126 households.
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While the return of benefits has helped bring daily visits back to typical levels, this experience was a powerful reminder of how quickly needs can surge when families face even a short disruption in resources.
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As our Interim Executive Director, Kathy Felix, shared in a recent interview with Lakeland PBS:
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“Breaking records is not what we want to do here. But the past few weeks have reminded us how important it is to care for one another and to always be prepared.”
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We are deeply grateful to our volunteers, donors, and community partners who stepped up in remarkable ways—donating food, giving time, and offering financial support. Your generosity ensured that no one in our community went hungry during this period of uncertainty.
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Looking ahead, BCFS remains committed to strengthening our preparedness and capacity to respond to future disruptions.
Want to Help?
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Our community is strongest when we support one another. If you’d like to get involved, here are meaningful ways to make a difference:
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Donate: Non-perishable food, personal care items, or monetary donations of any size make an immediate impact. Learn more about our most needed items here or how to make a monetary donation here.
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Volunteer: Help us serve our neighbors by joining our team of dedicated volunteers. Learn more about becoming a volunteer here.
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Apply to Join the Board: Share your skills and passion by helping guide the future of BCFS. Learn more about board member responsibilities and apply here.
Together, we can ensure that—whatever challenges come—no one in our community is left behind.​
SNAP Benefits Disruption Information
10/27/25
Update from the BCFS Board of Directors
Beginning November 1, 2025, as many as 440,000 Minnesotans could experience disruptions to their SNAP benefits if a resolution to the government shutdown is not reached.
At Bemidji Community Food Shelf (BCFS), we know this uncertainty is creating stress for many families. We are closely monitoring the situation and working with our partners to form a response to help those impacted. Even a short delay in benefits can make it difficult for families already facing food insecurity, and we want you to know—you are not alone.
If you are a community member who wants to help out during this time of uncertainty, you can find out how you can help.
If your SNAP benefits are delayed or disrupted, continue to use any benefits you currently have available. Food shelves and hunger relief programs across Minnesota are coming together to share ideas and resources to support families during this time. Please be patient, as local food shelves may experience higher demand in the coming weeks.
BCFS will continue to share updates and resources through our website and Facebook. Together, we’ll work to ensure no one in our community goes hungry during this disruption.
Resources You Can Use:
Bemidji Community Food Shelf (BCFS):
Our hours of operation are currently Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. If you are in need of food, please see our website for more information. Or call the Food Shelf at 218-444-6580.
General Information:
Find updates from the state agencies on current status:
If you are a recipient of benefits, keep your contact information up to date with the benefits to be sure you get updates.
To find additional support programs in the Bemidji community, please visit the United Way’s Partner Agency list or the Community Resource Connections site.
For additional food assistance, contact the Hunger Solutions HelpLine – Call or text 1-888-711-1151 or visit their website.
Case Questions:
Contact your County Financial Worker for questions about your specific benefits.
How You Can Help:
During times like this, our community’s generosity makes all the difference. If you’re looking for ways to support your neighbors affected by the SNAP disruption, here are a few meaningful ways to help:
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Give financially: Monetary donations allow BCFS to purchase the exact food and supplies most in demand. Even a small gift can make a big impact during periods of increased need. You can make a donation using our secure form.
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Donate food: Nonperishable, healthy items are always needed. Breakfast cereal, canned fruit, canned beans, shelf-stable meals, and personal hygiene items are hardest to source in bulk. You can find our most needed items list here.
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Spread the word: Share reliable information about local food resources and encourage anyone affected to reach out for help.
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Volunteer your time: Food shelves may experience higher demand in the coming weeks. If you’re able, consider signing up to help. If you're local to Bemidji, please visit our Volunteer Page to learn more about available opportunities.
Together, small acts of kindness can help make sure every neighbor has enough to eat, no matter what challenges arise.