Image: Ruby's Pantry

By Laura Durenberger-Grunow - Boreal Community Media Exclusive - December 8, 2023

Ruby's Pantry is a monthly program that distributes food to a minimum of 150 Cook County families in need. The organization is currently seeking donations to help purchase gift certificates for 56 families who are struggling to afford the $25 program fee for the December event and beyond. Food insecurity has increased since the COVID-19 pandemic, as many families struggle to put food on the table. 

According to the Food Insecurity Dashboard created by the University of Minnesota, 11% of Cook County's residents experience not having enough to eat. Programs like Ruby's Pantry utilize excess food donated by grocery stores and food suppliers to distribute to the community for $25, or by handing out free gift certificates to those who can't afford the fee. 

To help: 

• Donate: Send checks to Ruby's Pantry PO Box 5 Grand Marais MN 55604. Any amount is appreciated!
• Adopt a family: Pay for a family's $25 gift certificate.
• Volunteer: Help unload the truck, prepare food shares, and distribute food to families.

Additional Information:

• Distribution: Second Tuesday of each month at the Cook County High School (football field area) from 5:00pm to 6:30pm.
• Free gift certificates: Available for those who cannot afford the program fee.
• Locations to obtain free gift certificates: Food shelf, WIC office, Public Health office, Grand Portage.
• No online donations: All donations must be made by check.

For more information, email: [email protected]

More resources can be found via the pamphlet from Cook County Public Health and Human Services below: 

Related: Empty Bowls Fall Community event a huge success with biggest turnout to date, raising almost $10,000