• hsm agency highlight february 2009

HSM Agency Highlight February 2009

Renville County Food Shelf
Olivia, MN (south of Willmar)
HSM Blue Ribbon Food Shelf

History:
In 1983, a group of concerned citizens met to discuss establishing a food shelf in Renville County. That first year, 31 households were served compared to 2515 families served in 2008. The Renville County Food Shelf is unique in that it is run with the help of all volunteers.

Mission:

  • Reach out to hungry people.

Strategic goals for 2008-2009:

  • Move to a larger space.
  • Continue to seek innovative ways to provide service to the community.
  • Recruit more volunteers in order to expand the food shelf hours.
  • Update computers.

Food Shelf Policies:

  • The Renville County Food Shelf Serves people living in Renville County.
  • All people are served who come to the food shelf. No one is denied food.
  • People that live in another county are given information about the food shelf in the county in which they reside.
  • Households can receive food at least twelve times a year and more if needed. No one is denied food.
  • Clients will be surveyed on an annual basis to determine their needs.
  • If a client has a complaint, they should call the Renville County Food Shelf President.
  • Renville County Food Shelf volunteers are trained in the tasks they are assigned and in the respectful treatment of clients.

According to Mary Schroepfer, Renville County Food Shelf Board Treasurer, “We treat our clients with respect by acknowledging them when they enter the food shelf and offering the client choice model of service which allows them to choose the foods their family will find most useful.”

At a recent volunteer training, the coordinators emphasized this value with two creative skits in which food shelf policies were not being followed. The food shelf board members each played a role. To see the script, click here. Food Shelf President Ardis Wertish said that, “The skits really helped the volunteers understand the food shelf policies in a way that was clear. Also, the volunteers were able to see the impact of not following the food shelf rules on the people they are there to serve.” Ardis also added, “We are not here to judge. We are here to feed hungry people.”

Hunger Solutions Minnesota officially recognizes the Renville County Food Shelf as an HSM Blue Ribbon Food Shelf and for their outstanding service to their community. Congratulations!