Everyone is encouraged to stop by the Clearwater American Legion next Saturday, April 15, for a fundraiser being held to help raise money for the new Clearwater – Clear Lake Food Shelf building that is planned for their recently purchased property. 

For the past 25 years, the food shelf has occupied a space of approximately 400 square feet in the Clearwater Lions Community Building. Client usage has steadily grown during this time, and more recently, because of rising food costs, the organization has seen an increase of 20% of those in need. 

Needing a larger facility to continue to extend their services, the Clearwater – Clear Lake Food Shelf has taken the first step by purchasing a 1-acre parcel of land in Clearwater from Rejoice Lutheran Church. 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. 

To reach their goal, volunteers and food shelf members will be holding a variety of fundraisers, with the first event being the upcoming fundraiser April 15. The event will be from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Clearwater American Legion, with a pulled pork sandwich dinner, silent auction, and bake sale.

“It’s been amazing to see individuals from other organizations bringing their ideas and talents to help make this event a success,” said Food Shelf Volunteer Mary Abraham. “We are very excited about this fundraiser.”

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. Road 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.