Salvation Army sets March food drive goal at 2 million pounds; would be largest ever in Twin Cities

The Salvation Army is hoping for record-breaking support during next month’s food drive.

The organization’s Twin Cities branch announced a goal of collecting 2 million pounds of non-perishable food items during the effort, which will run from March 1-26. That would be the largest single food drive ever held in the Twin Cities, the Salvation Army said.

During such a difficult time for so many due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Salvation Army said food shelves in Minnesota have seen a record 3.83 million visits. The organization added that 40% of people visiting food pantries last year had never visited one before.

With the increased need for food assistance, the organization said a record-breaking food drive in the Twin Cities would help provide 1.2 million meals to struggling Minnesotans.

Anyone wishing to participate can drop off non-perishable food at nearly 100 Twin Cities locations starting in March, including all metro area SPIRE Credit Unions, Cub stores, Morrie’s Auto Group locations and Salvation Army Family Stores.

The food drive will culminate in a community-wide, contactless, drive-thru collection on March 27, the organization said.

More information on food drive and a list of suggested items can be found online.