Food insecurity continues to affect thousands of families across our region. According to Feeding America’s Map the Meal Gap research, which estimates local food insecurity using census and economic data, more than 13 percent—approximately 5,990 Itasca County residents—are food insecure, including an estimated 1,780 children. Many households struggle to consistently put enough food on the table. At the same time, Minnesota has experienced historically high demand at food shelves, with statewide visits reaching record levels as families navigate rising costs and constrained household budgets.

Recognizing that access to food is only part of the equation, United Way of 1000 Lakes hosts its annual Flavors of Our Community drive to expand access to culturally relevant ingredients, ensuring community members can prepare meals that feel familiar, meaningful, and connected to home.

While food shelves serve as a critical safety net, many lack the spices, sauces, and staple ingredients needed to prepare culturally familiar meals. Through partnerships with volunteers, donors, nonprofits, corporate sponsors, and local schools, United Way assembles thoughtfully curated pantry packs filled with ingredients central to family recipes. New this year, each pack will also include a recipe card featuring a culturally rooted dish that incorporates the included ingredients—making it even easier for families to prepare a nourishing, familiar meal at home.

The Anishinaabe pack highlights traditional staples such as wild rice, maple syrup, and other locally significant ingredients. The Hispanic pack includes foundational items like rice and dried legumes, while the Southeast Asian pack features essentials such as rice noodles and fish sauce. When paired with fresh produce, these thoughtfully selected ingredients help families prepare nourishing meals that reflect their traditions and tastes.

In 2025, volunteers distributed nearly 700 pounds of panty items to local Itasca County families through partnerships with 12 area schools, helping ensure students and their families have access to foods that honor their cultures and everyday cooking practices.

A meaningful partnership with the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe ensures that each Anishinaabe pack includes locally harvested wild rice—manoomin, meaning “good berry”—a food deeply rooted in Ojibwe history, spirituality, and culture. Support from community partners has also allowed the initiative to expand its use of locally sourced items, including pure maple syrup from Master’s Maples, strengthening regional food systems while investing in the local economy.

“Access to culturally familiar foods is more than nourishment—it’s a connection to heritage and home,” said Kimberly Brink Smith, executive director of United Way. “When families can prepare meals that reflect who they are, it fosters dignity, belonging, and a stronger community.”

Community members can play a direct role in ensuring families have access to culturally familiar foods that nourish both body and spirit. Whether by donating ingredients, sponsoring a pantry pack, volunteering to assemble packs, or making a financial contribution, every action helps build a community where all neighbors feel seen, valued, and supported.

To make a financial gift, visit uwlakes.org/donate and select Flavors of Our Community to help purchase culturally specific ingredients in bulk.

Join us in making sure every table reflects the traditions and dignity of the families who gather around it.

For more information and a complete list of drop box locations, visit uwlakes.org/flavors.