Elk River Food Shelf Director Named 2026 Good Neighbor Honoree

(KNSI) – A Sherburne County woman has been named a 2026 Good Neighbor Honoree by the Initiative Foundation.

Heather Kliewer, executive director of the Community Aid of Elk River (CAER) Food Shelf, was selected for the honor, which recognizes individuals whose steady, often unrecognized service strengthens communities across Central Minnesota. Kliewer is one of four honorees being recognized as part of the foundation’s 40th anniversary. As part of the recognition, Kliewer is directing a $5,000 grant to the CAER Food Shelf.

Kliewer’s ties to CAER stretch back to her youth, when she took part in food drives for the organization. She later volunteered during summer breaks, joined the staff in 2017, and was selected to lead the food shelf in 2019.

Under Kliewer, CAER became a certified SuperShelf, grew to more than 150 active volunteers, and launched programs to improve access to healthy food, including a free outdoor farmers market created during the COVID-19 pandemic and supported shopping for individuals with mobility and sensory challenges. The organization serves hundreds of families each month across Elk River and surrounding communities.

She will be honored at the Initiative Foundation’s 40th anniversary gathering on September 22nd at Lupulin Brewing Company in Big Lake.

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