Ruby’s Pantry abruptly closes 37 Minnesota locations after 20 years
Minnesota food shelf demand hits record
The need for services through Minnesota's various food shelves has increased in the last two years, surpassing 9 million visits in 2024.
MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) - After 20 years of serving surrounding communities, a popular Minnesota pantry that distributes food to families in need is closing, effective immediately.
Ruby’s Pantry closes
What we know:
Officials with Ruby’s Pantry announced Tuesday night they’ve decided to end operations in Minnesota, closing 37 locations immediately. The pantry also has pop-up locations in North Dakota, Wisconsin and Iowa.
Ruby’s Pantry takes corporate food donations, mainly surpluses and overages, and distributes them to families at pop-up sites, which are typically churches. Families getting the donations don’t have an income requirement, just a $25 donation for boxes of food.
Ruby’s Pantry had locations in Minnesota spanning from Grand Marais and Baudette, all the way down to Rochester.
Ruby’s Pantry issues statement
What they're saying:
Officials with Ruby’s Pantry put the following statement on their website Tuesday night:
"Greetings, Over the past several months, we have been thoughtfully realigning the work, structure, and focus of Ruby’s Pantry to ensure our mission remains at the center of everything we do. As part of this process, we have worked to better align community needs with our goal of operating in the most effective and seamless way possible.
"As a result, we have decided to end the operations of Ruby’s Pantry effective immediately. We recognize that this is difficult news to receive and do not take this decision lightly.
"God has blessed Ruby’s for over 20 years, and it has been an incredible journey. It all started from a vision to help others through a single blessing box. We are truly grateful for your contributions and dedication throughout your time with Ruby’s Pantry. Thank you for the important role you have played on this journey and for the impact you have made in service of our mission."
Second Harvest Heartland reacts
Local perspective:
Second Harvest Heartland is one of the nation’s largest and innovative food banks, serving Minnesota and western Wisconsin. It partners with over 1,000 food shelves and meal programs to provide over 140 million meals annually. They provided the following statement about Ruby's Pantry to FOX 9.
"At Second Harvest Heartland, we are focused on getting food where it’s needed most within our community. We provide food to more than 1,000 food shelf and meal program partners throughout our service area. Although Ruby’s Pantry has not been a partner of Second Harvest Heartland, we know their closure will impact the neighbors who rely on their services. We will be working with our current partners who serve those areas to ensure they are equipped to meet any increases in demand over the weeks and months ahead."