The Clearwater – Clear Lake Food Shelf fundraiser held last Saturday far exceeded their goal of $20,000 thanks to the incredible community support received.

The fundraiser was held to raise money for the new, larger building planned for their recently purchased 1-acre property. The new building will be in a safer environment, be handicap accessible, and have public rest rooms. The building design has been completed and has an estimated cost of $450,000. 

Community members poured into the Clearwater Legion for a pulled pork dinner, silent auction, and bake sale, with musical entertainment by Dave Lumley Music.

Along with thanks for community support, Food Shelf volunteers extended thanks to the Clearwater Legion, Legion Auxiliary, Legion Riders, Rejoice Lutheran Volunteer group, St. Luke’s Quilters, Clearwater and Clear Lake Lions, Jim and Carol Eich, Nancy Seen, Candy Samuelson and so many others who were an important part of the event. 

“We had over 100 donations from our local businesses for our silent auction,” said Food Shelf Volunteer Mary Abraham. “Many individuals brought baked goods. This was a community event, with many organizations coming together for the first time to make this fundraiser a huge success.” 

“Our goal was to reach around $20,000, but with all the community support we received we exceeded way over that amount. It was just overwhelming and so appreciated. We extend our thank you to all from the bottom of our hearts.”

The next Clearwater – Clear Lake Food Shelf fundraiser is being planned for April 29. Weather permitting, they will be holding a tree sale on their newly acquired land as they have had a lot of interest in the trees growing on the property.

The mission of the food shelf is to serve friends and neighbors who are faced with food insecurity and provide other resources for those in need. The organization serves the Clearwater and Clear Lake areas of Central Minnesota, which fall within Sherburne, Stearns, and Wright Counties. 

For anyone in need, the Clearwater-Clear Lake Food Shelf is currently located in the Lions Community Building under the Clearwater water tower at 1100 Co. Rd/ 75. Hours of operation are Mondays 5:30 to 7 p.m., Tuesdays 9 to 11 a.m. and 6 to 8 p.m., and Wednesdays 3 to 5 p.m.