Partnering to provide food to those in need

The federal government shutdown has been especially tough for people facing food insecurity in Olmsted County and across the country. But on Friday, November 7, 2025, something amazing happened in our community. Thanks to a generous $200,000 donation from the Olmsted County Board of Commissioners, Channel One was able to help bridge the gap in SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) funding. With this support, they provided food boxes to anyone in need in our county, including SNAP recipients and others experiencing food insecurity. Each household received three boxes filled with fresh foods, shelf-stable items, and proteins.

Here are the final numbers Channel One shared on its Facebook page last Friday night:  

• 235,000 pounds of dry goods and fresh produce were handed out. 
• 3,900 neighbors were served.
• 361 volunteers helped to make it happen. 

“We had the true privilege of hearing so many heartwarming stories from residents last week as they registered and reached out with questions,” noted Olmsted County Family Support and Assistance Director Meridee Braun. “Our community continues to show incredible strength and gratitude, people are deeply thankful to be supported, and we’re equally grateful for the opportunity to serve in this way.”

Braun explained that her team received messages from so many grateful Olmsted County residents during this effort. Here is one such message: 

Meridee, I just talked to you, I just wanted to say thank you SO much to everyone who helped coordinate and volunteer their time for this. I am in line waiting and it’s just amazing how many people have come together to help the community. I have tears in my eyes as I am typing this. Definitely restores some faith in humanity. I wasn’t sure who to reach out to but just wanted to make sure someone got the message. 

"A heartfelt thank you to the amazing teams involved – Olmsted County's Family Support and Assistance staff and Channel One! Your time, energy, and heart made it possible for folks facing food insecurity to get needed support and resources,” said Olmsted County Deputy Administrator of Health, Housing, and Human Services Amy Rauchwarter. “We're so grateful for your partnership and dedication to our community!"

Watch this video to learn more!