Itasca Holiday Program Provides Foods, Gifts To Families

As many Minnesotans prepare for holiday festivities, some may be struggling to put out a full dinner and gifts for their families. Second Harvest Food Bank is hoping to eliminate some of the stress that this time of year might bring.

It’s the second day of food and gift bag distribution for the annual Itasca Holiday Program.

Second Harvest is providing holiday food items like sweet potatoes, stuffing and fruit along with grocery vouchers for nearly 1,800 Itasca County families. For families with kids from 1 to 12 years old, they’re also receiving gifts.

The food bank will be providing the food gifts at eight different locations to make it more convenient for the people it serves. Grand Rapids is seeing the most need with 900 families benefiting from the multi-day event.

The food bank has been gathering new toys since Thanksgiving. One of the families lending a help hand are the Hebeisen’s. Jaden donated all of her birthday and Christmas gifts to the cause last year.

This year, Jaden and her dad, Jared, are helping disperse the bags and grabbing different gifts if need be to suit the child’s age. Jared Hebeisen says the old adage is true- it’s better to give, than receive.

Second Harvest will be giving out the food bags on Wednesday and Thursday. Gifts for children will be given out again on Thursday in Grand Rapids.

The organization says it could use additional monetary donations to fill the 1,800 food boxes. The food will help provide several meals and a voucher can cover a special item such as a ham or turkey. With the donation of $100 or more, you can receive a uniquely made ornament. Donations can be made electronically here.

More information can be found at www.secondharvestncfb.com.