Volunteers Enlisted to Assist People

VEAP's Food and Basic Needs Program provides access to healthy, fresh foods for households experiencing food-insecurity. The program includes an on-site food pantry, mobile food pantry, student food (supplemental food for school-age children), and food deliveries to seniors or individuals with mobility barriers. VEAP operates one of the largest food pantries in the state with 203,659 total Food and Basic Needs program services including 3,794 express packs (one, 50-pound bag of groceries for walk-in visitors) in 2023. Of the over 6 million pounds of food that was distributed, 43% was fresh fruits and vegetables. VEAP offers fresh fruits and vegetables, dairy, deli, bakery, culturally specific food choices, protein, meats, canned goods, and non-perishable items. Participants may visit the on-site food pantry/mobile pantry as needed, typically 1-2 times per month.VEAP addresses transportation barriers to healthy food access by delivering food to 5,391 seniors or qualifying individuals. The mobile food pantry provides 35,889 individuals with access to healthy foods at designated sites in areas of high need located throughout VEAP's service area. Food is provided throughout the school year to 3,946 students in the Edina, Richfield, and Bloomington School Districts. VEAP's state-of-the-art commercial kitchen serves as a business incubation site for start-up businesses that produce food for market wholesale.

VEAP's Social Services Program provides caring, professional support to households experiencing food-insecurity, high-risk of eviction or homelessness, and financial crisis. Through a holistic service delivery with housing stability at the center of our focus, services include housing advocacy, case management, referrals, resource navigation and coordination, and emergency financial assistance in the form of rent, deposit, or utility assistance and other assistance to maintain housing or employment. In 2023, VEAP provided $726,717 in rent or utility assistance, $8,805 for gas/bus cards, and $11,278 in grocery gift cards and other essential basic needs.Participants work with a Social Worker or Case Manager using a strengths-based, case management approach to prevent homelessness and stabilize income. Social Services staff meets with participants to complete an individualized assessment and provide financial assistance, supportive services, and navigation of community resources to help regain stability quickly.