Catholic Charities Participating In Summer Food Donation Match Program

(KNSI) – Catholic Charities of the Diocese of St. Cloud is looking for local donors to step up in a time of unprecedented need.

The organization is taking part in the 16th annual Open Your Heart to the Hungry and Homeless Summer Challenge. Every dollar donated during the month of July will get a matching grant up to $4,000. A typical shelter participating in the drive raises $2 million.

The donations are especially needed in the summer, when kids often lack access to free or reduced breakfasts and lunches provided by their schools. Emergency Services Program Manager Eric Vollen says, “Children are out of school, household budgets are stretched, and donations traditionally slow down. The Summer Challenge gives us a vital opportunity to double the impact of every dollar raised – helping us keep nutritious food on our shelves when it’s needed most.”

The Catholic Charities Food Shelf is located at 157 Roosevelt Road in St. Cloud. All program donations should be made online. Indicate it is for the “Food Shelf Summer Challenge.” A link is here.

Demand last year set a record at 2.7 million pounds. Officials believe 2025 is on pace to surpass it.

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