While few of these names are familiar to most people in Minnesota, these 25 people are making an impact in Washington, D.C. The list includes a former senator, advisers to President Barack Obama and members of the media.

MPR

Is the Elderly Loved One in Your Family Getting Enough Nutritious Foods?

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The recession and rule changes that broadened eligibility have led to a sharp increase in food stamp usage.

By KATIE HUMPHREY, Star Tribune

The number of Dakota County residents who rely on food stamps, known formally as Food Support, has increased tenfold since 2000.

In November 2010, the most recent numbers available, there were 16,651 residents receiving food stamps and another 3,547 g

Nine Hennepin County nonprofit groups that provide emergency food and economic aid to residents have banded together to coordinate and improve services amid rising demand.

For the first time, groups that in some cases have existed for more than 30 years are meeting to share experiences and speak as a single voice.

Hunger Solutions Minnesota Urges Minnesota and all School Districts to Make Increased Participation in School Breakfast a Top Priority

January 13, 2011 [ST PAUL MN] – During the 2009-2010 school year, 112,000 low-income children in Minnesota participated in the national School Breakfast Program, according to a new national report released today.

At the Minnesota Food Helpline, the phone rings all day long.

Many of the callers are people looking for help finding a food shelf or obtaining food stamps.

What are local food shelves doing to cater to varying tastes of Minnesota’s large immigrant population?

Last November, 1,020 people in the county received food support from the Redwood County Human Services.

The total amount of food benefits given out that month came to $90,118.
With tough economic times, the state has changed the rules to make more citizens eligible for food aid.

Formerly called the Food Stamp Program, food aid in Minnesota is now dispensed through the Food Support Program,

The department handles health care programs for more than 700,000 Minnesotans monthly, food support for 315,000 and child support for nearly 400,000 parents.

Minnesotans are skipping meals and making unhealthy choices about nutrition. Despite some recent positive economic news, over 80,000 Minnesotans depend on food assistance every week.