They were coming to the Hope food shelf.
“The need is insane,” said Hope Pastor Dr. Al Goracke. “We’re grateful for all the volunteers and the people who donate.”
According to Goracke – the combination of rising costs, SNAP benefits being cut and a government shutdown – is a perfect storm that has impacted many North Metro residents.
“We average about 1,800 families served in a week,” Goracke said. “Last week was a record week – we served 3,067 families with the help of 237 volunteers. 86,000 pounds of food. That’s the equivalent of about 2 1/4 semis.”
Hunger issues are real in 2025 and Goracke believes things have never been this bad before.
“It’s even worse right now than it was in COVID,” Goracke said. “There was probably more resources going out to people during COVID and now they’ve pulled back on some of those resources. I think it’s more of a desperate time for people.”
Goracke and Hope volunteers do as much as they can, but they can’t do it all.
“It is wrong,” Goracke said. ” It drives me crazy of course because I know that I can’t help everyone that needs food. We’re not just a food shelf. We’re trying to bring hope.”
“These are our neighbors”
Thursday is food giveaway day at Hope – which is bittersweet for those involved in handing out groceries, because the lengthy lines and traffic are a symbol of tough times.
“You’ll be touched by it,” Goracke said. “Your heart will be sad because you’re going to see a long line of people waiting to get in to get food. That line has been growing steadily in the last few weeks. These are our neighbors. These are our friends. These are our co-workers. A lot of times there’s a stigma on people needing the food shelf. I just tell people this is for everyone. We’re all in this right now.”
Even in these moments of struggle, Goracke remains grateful for those who step up and chip in.
“Blaine has supported us,” Goracke said. “Anoka County has. Then you talk about the individuals in the local neighborhoods. They’re dropping off food all the time and that’s one of the great things. People will call, what can I do? Because they understand what’s happening.”
Hope is always looking for non-perishable food donations and volunteers. You can also donate money through their website by going to Hopeforthecommunity.com.
