WHAT will you collect?

1. Reach out via email to the Food Shelf to ask what is most needed. This may vary depending on the time of the year.  We suggest selecting a few items such as boxed macaroni and cheese, cans of chunky soup, ramen noodles or healthy boxed cereals.
   Toiletries and paper products are always needed.
2. Please ask for new or non-expired food items.  Expired items oftentimes need to be thrown away.  Toiletries and paper products should be new and unopened. 
3. Come up with a short list of items. Click here for a suggested list.
4. Donations of cash and checks accepted: checks made payable to Mahtomedi Area Food Shelf

HOW will you collect items?

1. We suggest that you create a flyer (click here for a sample template) complete with your family, group or sports team name/logo and directions on what you are trying to accomplish and what Food Shelf you are collecting items to support.
    
2. Create a collection bin:
   
   1. School or business entryway, break room
       
   2. Collect at your upcoming holiday or birthday party or event.
       
   3. Or you can attach your flyer (insert template) to a paper bag and leave them on the  front porch of a selected neighborhood.  Be sure to give specific instructions on the flyer when you will return to pick up the groceries.

We’ve Collected Food or Financial Donations, NOW WHAT?

1. Please pack donated food items in paper bags or boxes, we suggest bags weigh no more than 25 pounds.
2. Please dispose of any expired items prior to Food Shelf drop off.

Donation DROP OFF:

1. Contact the Mahtomedi Area Food Shelf via email at lmoriarity@stjudeofthelake.org to coordinate a drop-off time that works for the Food Shelf AND your group!  Typically, donation and food drop-offs are accepted Monday – Thursday from 8:30 – 3:30 but DROP-OFF appointments are preferred.  It is very helpful if you can weigh items that you drop off. Include requests for receipts in your Drop-off email.
    
2. A scheduled drop-off time will allow you to drop off, weigh, and put away your items– which helps the Food Shelf greatly!