Local businesses helping families in need of food

FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) — Thousands of families in both North Dakota and Minnesota may soon lose access to SNAP benefits. And several people within the community want to help with that.

“Right now at our store, if you can just show us your badge or let us know that you’re a federal worker, you can get a free loaf of honey, whole wheat, or premium white bread. We also offer ten percent off,” said Cassie Wiste, Owner and Operator of Great Harvest Bread Company.

“At this location, we’re accepting food for the community. If people want to come in and drop off food items for the food shelf, we’ll accept them,” said Jennifer Tollefson, General Manager for North Fargo Papa Johns.

For Tollefson, the loss of SNAP benefits hits close to home.

“Nobody should be hungry. Like that’s my thing, nobody should have to be worried about where their next meal is coming from. I was a single mom, and I relied at one point in time on SNAP benefits to feed my kids. And even getting off of it from an employee standpoint, it’s scary,” said Tollefson.

At Great Harvest Bread Company, the company’s mission is to give back generously. The business has supported fundraisers, the Salvation Army, families at the YWCA, and other local organizations. And several weeks ago, Wiste had noticed customers who are federal workers impacted by the shutdown. She knew she had to help them out.

“When you think about feeding your family, you know a loaf of bread can go a long way. You know you can have it for breakfast. To get those school kids off in the morning with something healthy. Of course, everything pairs well with dinner, soups, that kind of thing,” said Wiste.

Both businesses say they are going to keep their promotion and giving back to the community open until everyone is able to have food.

Some local homeowners are planning to give out ramen noodles, chicken noodle soup, and other food items to trick-or-treaters.