Great Plains Food Bank served 11% more people seeking food assistance in 2025

FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) — The numbers don’t lie.

Great Plains Food Bank saw an 11% increase in people seeking food assistance in 2025.

They served over 167,000 people last year and say that equates to 1 in 5 adults in the region they serve across North Dakota and Clay County, Minnesota.

Kids continue to be impacted by hunger as they accounted for 39% of those served by the food bank, followed by seniors 60 and over at 15%.

“This increase reflects our reality across our region that more families, children, and older adults are struggling to put food on the table,” said Ann Prifrel, CEO of the Great Plains Food Bank. “At the same time, it reinforces our responsibility to respond. We are committed to meeting this growing need while expanding our reach, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring everyone has access to the food they need to live and thrive.” 

In its 43rd year, Great Plains Food Bank now includes 205 food pantries, shelters, meal sites, and other charitable feeding programs operating in 104 communities.