Photo by Karen Downing
Story By Karen Downing
The Becker County Food Pantry in Detroit Lakes is seeing record demand. Director Liz Lilja says November set an all-time high, with 125 households served in a single day and more than 1,700 people served throughout the month. December remained busy as well, feeding around 1,600 people.
According to Lilja, some USDA food sources that previously supplemented their supply at no cost have dried up. However, the food pantry has always purchased the majority of its food from North Country Food Bank, spending about $25,000 a month. She credits North Country for sourcing products affordably, helping the pantry stretch every dollar. When weekly fresh produce drops ended, North Country provided the produce themselves, allowing the pantry to continue offering it.
Local grocery stores are also playing a key role. Aldi, Walmart, and Central Market generously donate food, and Central Market has stepped up even more to help cover the gap left by the USDA.
Lilja says community generosity has been remarkable, with more local food drives and individual donations. Clients frequently praise the volunteers for their service. A core group of about 25 volunteers keeps the food pantry running every week.
In her words, “People in this county take care of their own.”
Located at 610 Terry Street in Detroit Lakes, the Becker County Food Pantry is open from noon to 3 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Clients may shop once a month.