There is a hidden epidemic happening right now in our community.  Thousands of our neighbors in Southeast Minnesota and over the Mississippi River into Wisconsin are impacted, especially those who are on a fixed income or are single.  Although all of their stories are a little bit different, their need is the same...they don't have enough money to make ends meet each month.

Meet Kristen, One of the 4,000+ Families Struggling Financially in Southeast Minnesota

Meet Kristen:  a single mom who just moved out of temporary housing and finally into an apartment.  She is willing to be a little vulnerable today so hopefully more will understand how great the need is in our community right now.  Here is a glimpse at where her money is going every month:

Channel One Regional Food Bank
Channel One Regional Food Bank
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Kristen's budget is like so many others in our community.  One unexpected medical bill, car repair, or appliance that needs to be replaced, can start the spiral of having to make the tough decision on what bills are going to be paid.  In the end, food seems to be the expense that gets cut the most.  Food prices also went up 11% in Minnesota, making it even more difficult to be able to afford the basic necessities and sadly has left many refrigerators and cupboards bare.  Many moms in the same situation as Kristen often don't eat so the kids can.

Over 4,000 households every month see a similar budget breakdown to Kristens and need the help of Channel One Regional Food Bank.

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Google
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Channel One Regional Food Bank
Channel One Regional Food Bank
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I say that this is a hidden epidemic because these individuals are your neighbors, the people that you work with, those who you meet at the store, and possibly those who are in our schools and working with our kids every day.

Today, the is an easy way to help our neighbors who are struggling financially...and you get to fill up with a meal too!

Channel One Regional Food Bank Facebook Page
Channel One Regional Food Bank Facebook Page
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Buy Your Ticket Now For the Empty Bowls Event in Rochester, Minnesota

Right now, a bunch of restaurants are getting supplies ready and their teams are pumped to create amazing soups and bread just for you.  At the same time, individuals all over our area are painting bowls that you will get to take home as a reminder of those who may not know if they will have enough funds for their next meal.  The soup, bread, and bowls are all part of the Empty Bowls event that helps Channel One Regional Food Bank.

Empty Bowls To-Go pre-orders are open now and is one of the easiest ways to help our neighbors struggling to make ends meet.  Here's how it works:

  • Go to the Empty Bowls To-Go website
  • Fill out the "About You" info
  • Pick your soups
  • Find the date and time that works best for you to pick up
  • Check out the specialty bowls
  • Review your order and pay

Ordering for Empty Bowls To-Go will close at 7:00 pm on Wednesday, October 4th, 2023 so hurry and get your order in!

Townsquare Media Rochester - Preston
Townsquare Media Rochester - Preston
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Townsquare Media cares about our community! Every year, we help the community in a variety of ways from supporting local fundraisers, to running daily public service messages, to creating digital community campaigns and hosting events attended by thousands.

Do you have a community event coming up or a fundraiser?  Let us know!  Contact us at jessica.williams@townsquaremedia.com or fill out the form requesting more info at our Townsquare Cares page.

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Never Have I Ever - Minnesota Edition

You know how to play, right?! Go through the list of below of things you can do in Minnesota and if you haven't done it, give yourself a point. It's fun! And, this can be a great guide to figure out what adventure you should go on next in the Land of 10,000 Lakes.