During Operation Metro Surge, fear and uncertainty created significant barriers for many immigrant and Latino families in our community. Families who had previously felt comfortable accessing food and other resources were suddenly hesitant to leave their homes or visit traditional service locations. Bountiful Basket responded by doing what we do best—listening to our community, adapting quickly, and working alongside trusted partners to make sure families continued to have access to nutritious food and support.

Working closely with Mi CASA, Latino Voices, Carver County Health and Human Services, and counselors, social workers, and other staff within our local schools, we expanded our reach beyond the walls of our food shelf and brought food directly to families. These trusted community partners helped identify families who needed support, connect them with resources, and create safe and accessible ways to get food where it was needed. During March alone, 381 food deliveries were made directly to families throughout our community.

This response was about more than delivering groceries. It demonstrated what is possible when schools, county services, nonprofits, and community organizations come together around the people we collectively serve. At Bountiful Basket, we believe everyone deserves to feel cared for and supported, especially during times of uncertainty. Food is just the beginning. By working together, we can nourish, support, and empower our community in the ways it needs us most.