Hastings Family Service

Emergency services emergency assistance - hfs provides emergency grants and/or vouchers to individuals and families to assist with some expenses, such as housing, utilities, automobile repairs, gas, prescriptions, etc. Referral and resource assistance is also offered. In 2023, 234 grants totaling 40,116 were provided to families and 3,445 families received emergency bags and free shelf items. Market food programs - provide 7-10 days of food through an in-person choice model market food shelf or a drive-thru option; includes personal care products and pet supplies options; vouchers for local grocery stores are offered for specific dietary or cultural needs. The food shelf provided 425,579 pounds of food to 2,279 families and thanksgiving dinner to 134 families in 2023. Market on the move ("mom") - a refrigerated van that distributes a mobile produce option to senior living facilities, the senior center, and meals on wheels recipients. Mom is also used for food rescue efforts with local grocers, distributing food throughout the community and preventing a significant amount of food waste. Market express - neighbors can receive a smaller food order through drive- thru; emergency food bags are available if immediate appointments are not available.

Supportive services meals on wheels - in partnership with allina health regina hospital, this program provides hot meals and a safety check for the elderly,people living with disabilities, and those recovering from surgery. In 2023, 17,915 meals were delivered to 153 seniors. Just friends - a transportation program utilizing volunteer drivers to help people get to medical appointments or grocery stores, creating connection and mobility to enhance the quality of life of people in the Hastings community. In 2023, volunteers provided 1,628 transports, logging 25,572 miles. Project share - families in need receive food and/or gifts during the holidays through an adopt-a-family program. In 2023, 233 families consisting of 901 individuals received food and 205 families consisting of 841 individuals received gifts through project share. School supplies - children at all grade levels are able to choose a backpack and fill it with the supplies needed for a successful school year. In 2023, 274 students from 122 households received school supplies through this program. Clothing vouchers - provided through the rivertown treasures thrift store to those who need assistance. In 2023, hfs provided vouchers valued at 54,056 to 504 families.

Community services rivertown treasures - clean, seasonal, carefully inspected, gently used clothing and household items are available for sale to the public, with all revenue supporting hfs programs. Provides affordable options to all neighbors in the community. Donation center - the entire inventory of rivertown treasures is donated by the community. Business center - hfs provides faxing, copying, and use of a computer and phone free of charge for business purposes. Volunteers - hfs relies on nearly 500 volunteers to provide help and hope to neighbors. Hfs is an accredited Service enterprise, providing a variety of schedules and opportunities for volunteers to share their time and talents, create connections, and serve the community. In 2023, volunteers performed 24,701 hours of Service for hfs, equivalent to 11.9 fulltime employees.