ARPA Food Security Grant

On November 25, 2024, Governor Tim Walz announced a $5 million investment in remaining flexible American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to support food security across Minnesota. This was in response to the increasing demand for food shelf services and the continued strain on the emergency food system.

The Food Group distributed these funds in early 2025 in partnership with the Department of Children, Youth and Families, Office of Economic Opportunity (DCYF, OEO).

A final report documenting how the ARPA Food Security Grant was spent is required from all grantees. This final report is due no later than January 15th, 2026.

ARPA FOOD SECURITY GRANT FINAL REPORT

Funding

$4.9 million was distributed to grantees as follows:

  • ~$2.45 million – Up to half of the available distribution funds was distributed to Tribal Nations and current American Indian Food Sovereignty (AIFS) non-profit grantees.
  • ~$2.45 million – At least half of the available distribution funds was distributed to MN TEFAP providers in addition to any remaining Tribal Nation/AIFS unclaimed funding.

For complete information on eligibility requirements, allowable expenses, and grant reporting, please review the ARPA Food Security Grant Guidance Document.

Questions about the ARPA Food Security Grant? Please contact Stephanie Robinson at srobinson@thefoodgroupmn.org.

Food Shelf Resources