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This National Volunteer Appreciation Month, we’re celebrating the hours, heart, and dedication that make our work possible. At Second Harvest Northland, every volunteer shift helps put nourishing food on a neighbor’s table.

In Hurley, Wisconsin, that impact comes to life through Joseph. Month after month, he shows up at our Mobile Pantry Program to hand out food, welcome neighbors, and ensure everyone leaves with what they need. For families facing hunger, Joseph’s time and kind smile mean more than food. They mean care and dignity.

“I love volunteering at Second Harvest Northland’s Mobile Pantry,” Joseph shares. “This program makes such an impact on those in my community.”

Joseph is one of more than 2,000 volunteers across our 15‑county region. Together, they ensure neighbors have access to food when they need it most.

As need continues to grow, so does the importance of volunteers willing to give their time. Each hour makes a real difference. This month, we invite you to be part of the heart of our mission by volunteering and helping nourish our communities.

For more than two decades, Whole Foods Co-op has been a trusted partner in our mission to end hunger in NE Minnesota and NW Wisconsin. This past year alone, they donated 20,574 pounds of food, ensuring over 17,000 meals for neighbors facing hunger. In addition, through their matching campaigns, another 7,116 meals were made possible.

Through our Food Rescue Program, partners like Whole Foods Co-op help recover surplus food and redirect it to families across our region, reducing food waste while increasing access to nutritious meals.

“Whole Foods Co-op is grateful for our longstanding partnership with Second Harvest Northland and for the incredibly important work they’re doing to increase food access across our region,” shares Marketing Manager Jenna Kowaleski. “They have the infrastructure to ensure our donations nourish those who need it most.”

Partnerships like this make our work possible. We are deeply grateful for Whole Foods Co-op and their continued commitment to our neighbors and our community.