Partnering at Allianz Field to Share Food and Beyond during Hunger Action Month

As costs rise and SNAP cuts loom, families are turning to food shelves and food distributions more often. But we know that food is only one part of what a family needs to feel stable. That’s why we hosted a new event that could meet multiple needs in one place. 

Second Harvest Heartland, in partnership with the Sanneh Foundation and Keystone Community Services, held a community gathering focused on sharing food and connecting with resources on the Great Lawn in front of Allianz Field in St. Paul on a sunny September Saturday during Hunger Action Month.  

This event was a chance to distribute food while connecting neighbors with other important resources that can support stability and food security. In one stop, neighbors got some free groceries, their annual flu shot, learned more about signing up for SNAP or other food programs, found resources for their pets, and learned about recreation programs for their family. 

The morning began with a dedicated team of volunteers efficiently packing boxes of pantry staples like pasta, canned beans, and spices. That morning and in the week leading up to the event, volunteers packed a grand total of 1,800 boxes to be distributed at Allianz Field and shared with local food shelf partners. 

When asked why he volunteered to help pack food boxes, Pete Wilson said, “I feel that food is just a basic human necessity. There are more people than ever in this state that don’t know where their next meal is coming from.” 

As community members arrived, neighbors surveyed the available produce, discussing their plans for meals later. “Is that bok choi?” one woman asked excitedly. Another woman saw the bright green jalapenos and said, “I’m making jalapeno poppers tonight!” Neighbors and volunteers chatted about ways to use the variety of items like large purple daikon radishes, bright red tomatoes, and fresh beets. 

Partners who generously shared their time and expertise to make this event a success and share their programs with the community include The Sanneh Foundation, Keystone Community Services, Fairview Health Services, Animal Humaine Society, Saint Paul Parks and Recreation, and Ramsey County Social Services. We are grateful for their collaboration and for the value they provide to the community.