VEAP is taking proactive measures amid the pandemic. At this time we are operating a hybrid model (in-person shopping on select days and drive-though). Learn more.

On-site Food Pantry

VEAP provides access to high quality, healthy, and fresh foods for individuals, families, children, and seniors experiencing hunger or food insecurity. Every year, we distribute over 4 million pounds of food (half of which is fresh produce!) to over 100,000 people in our community.

VEAP’s On-site Food Pantry offers a visitor-choice model, meaning when you visit the pantry, you are able to select the food you know your family will use and enjoy. Participants are eligible to visit twice a month. VEAP offers a variety of fresh foods, including fruits and vegetables, an assortment of meats, and dairy, as well as basic food staples, like rice, beans, bread, cereals, and canned products, daily.

Please note that visits to our On-site Food Pantry are scheduled by phone. Call 952.888.9616 x 100 to make an appointment. Most appointments are scheduled within one business day of your initial call.

Mobile Food Pantry

VEAP’s Mobile Food Pantry provides access to fresh vegetables, fruit, dairy, and deli items at several convenient locations and times throughout each month. Open to everyone, you can easily access your basic food essentials plus fresh produce and other healthy foods. See our event calendar for up-to-date site information. Everyone is welcome!

Food Deliveries

VEAP understands that transportation is often a barrier to visiting us. If you or a family member do not have access to a car or are unable to leave your home for whatever reason, we can deliver food right to your place of residence. When calling to make an appointment, please let our volunteers know that you will need to schedule a food delivery.

Nutrition Education

Note: Cooking classes currently suspended. Not sure how to use up all the fresh fruit and vegetables you get at VEAP? With support from community partners, VEAP facilitates fresh eating cooking classes for pantry participants right in our commercial kitchen. Courses in the past have ranged from one to eight weeks in duration and are typically two hours in length.

Student Food Packs

VEAP partners with local schools to provide food support to students throughout the academic year. We offer student-friendly foods that include a mix of healthy snacks, breakfast items and ingredients for easy prep meals. VEAP weekend food packs are made with the tastes of students in mind! We also support schools in filling their pantry cupboards. For additional questions, connect with Dave Rannow, VEAP’s Distribution Manager, at 952.955.8309.

Birthday Bags

Do you have a young family member celebrating a birthday? Please let us know when you place your food order. Birthday bags, when supplies are available, generally include cake mix, frosting, party supplies (candles, plates, napkins) and a small party favor (bubbles, crayons, silly putty, etc.).