Ruby’s Pantry abruptly closes 37 Minnesota locations after 20 years
Ruby’s Pantry abruptly closes 37 Minnesota locations after 20 years
After 20 years of serving surrounding communities, a popular Minnesota pantry that distributes food to families in need is closing, effective immediately. FOX 9's Courtney Godfrey has the story.
MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) - After 20 years of serving surrounding communities, a popular Minnesota pantry that distributes food to families in need is closing, effective immediately.
Ruby’s Pantry closes
What we know:
Officials with Ruby’s Pantry announced Tuesday night they’ve decided to end operations, saying the ministry was no longer financially sustainable.
While representatives with Ruby’s Pantry could not be reached for comment, the announcement indicates the closure of all 85 pop-up locations across the upper Midwest, including 37 Minnesota locations.
Ruby’s Pantry served more than 300,000 families a year across Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa and North Dakota. The nonprofit had been in operation since 2003 and operated on a pop-up model, mostly partnering with churches to distribute food. The organization didn’t have an income requirement, just a $25 donation per family.
Food shelves say closure comes at a hard time
What they're saying:
"This is just kind of another blow," said Executive Director of PROP Food Shelf Jenifer Loon. "We can do it, we’ll just need to marshal the resources."
Loon said it's been an especially difficult year so far, with food shelves nationwide facing increased demand and rising food costs. But Loon says they have navigated the challenges and are prepared to take on more clients.
"I can’t tell you exactly how we will… but we will accommodate them," Loon said.
Grace Church cancels Thursday pantry
Local perspective:
Grace Church in Eden Prairie was scheduled to host a food distribution on Thursday, which is now canceled due to the closure.
Grace Church is one of the 37 statewide locations to partner with Ruby's Pantry. In a statement, a spokesperson for the church said it had partnered with the organization for the last four years, serving thousands of guests through more than 50 food distribution events.
The church said it is now seeking new ways to serve those facing food insecurity.
Second Harvest Heartland reacts
Dig deeper:
Second Harvest Heartland is one of the nation’s largest food banks. It partners with over 1,000 food shelves and meal programs to provide 140 million meals annually. A spokesperson for Second Harvest said while it didn’t partner with Ruby’s Pantry, it's prepared to help those who used the service.
"We know their closure will impact the neighbors who rely on their services," said spokesperson Zach Nugent in a statement. "We will be working with our current partners who serve those areas to ensure they are equipped to meet any increases in demand over the weeks and months ahead."
Ruby’s Pantry full statement
The backstory:
Officials with Ruby’s Pantry put the following statement on their website Tuesday night:
"Greetings, Over the past several months, we have been thoughtfully realigning the work, structure, and focus of Ruby’s Pantry to ensure our mission remains at the center of everything we do. As part of this process, we have worked to better align community needs with our goal of operating in the most effective and seamless way possible.
"As a result, we have decided to end the operations of Ruby’s Pantry effective immediately. We recognize that this is difficult news to receive and do not take this decision lightly.
"God has blessed Ruby’s for over 20 years, and it has been an incredible journey. It all started from a vision to help others through a single blessing box. We are truly grateful for your contributions and dedication throughout your time with Ruby’s Pantry. Thank you for the important role you have played on this journey and for the impact you have made in service of our mission."
Resources
What you can do:
For more information on food assistance, Second Harvest Heartland offers assistance connecting people with food shelves through its confidential help line at 866-844-3663
For more information on PROP Food Shelf, visit their website.