Christian Cupboard Emergency Food Shelf

Overview

The Christian Cupboard Emergency Food Shelf, now known as Open Cupboard, is a nonprofit organization that has been committed to providing food assistance to those in need since its inception in 1983. Initially operating as a small food closet in the basement of Woodbury Lutheran Church in Minnesota, it has evolved significantly over the years to address the growing demand for food support services.

History

The organization began serving approximately five families per week in its early years when Woodbury's population was around 6,000 people. As the community's needs expanded, so did the infrastructure and scope of the Christian Cupboard Emergency Food Shelf. By the mid-2010s, it became evident that the church basement was insufficient to meet the increasing demands, leading to a successful capital campaign that enabled the organization to relocate to a new facility on the grounds of Guardian Angels Church in 2018.

Programs and Services

The organization expanded its services to include various programs designed to enhance access to fresh, nutritious food and other essential items. Today's Harvest, launched in 2021, is a free market offering fresh produce, meat, dairy, and bakery items. It operates multiple locations, allowing individuals to shop as frequently as needed. Additionally, Open Cupboard provides monthly delivery services to select zip codes, ensuring support for those unable to visit the food shelf in person. The Drive-Up Program, available by appointment, offers a range of perishable and non-perishable food items.

Mission and Values

Open Cupboard's mission is rooted in providing nutritious food to neighbors with dignity and respect. The organization believes that access to nutritious food is a fundamental human right and strives to support the community with compassion and responsiveness. During crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, Open Cupboard demonstrated its adaptability by significantly increasing its services.

Renaming and Expansion

In July 2022, the Christian Cupboard Emergency Food Shelf officially rebranded itself as Open Cupboard, part of its ongoing effort to serve the community more inclusively while maintaining its core values and commitment to fighting hunger. This change reflects the organization's evolution into a more expansive and inclusive entity, serving a broader populace without any restrictions on eligibility.