Note: Some of the images in this blog are courtesy of The Outreach Program of Brainerd Lakes, as we were busy packing food during the event.
Just a few weekends ago, we had the honor of participating in our first food packing event with The Outreach Program of Brainerd Lakes. This particular food pack was for Hurricane Relief meals, providing essential support to families impacted by this year's devastating hurricanes along the coast. While The Outreach Program of Brainerd Lakes primarily focuses on feeding children within a 60-80 mile radius, they stepped up when their shipping partner called in October, asking for assistance. And when this incredible organization answers the call, they do it with heart and a clear plan.
Their goal? To pack 106,920 meals and raise $35,283 to make this relief effort a reality. Thanks to generous donations from volunteers, community members, and a significant contribution from the Nisswa Lions Club, that goal was met. We were fortunate to be there on Friday night when the Nisswa Lions Club provided the final donation, pushing them past the finish line. It was a powerful reminder that while their priority is feeding the local community, they will always rise to the occasion when called upon.
Behind the Food Pack Experience
The Outreach Program of Brainerd Lakes organized 14 food packing events over 6 days in December, with over 330 volunteers coming together to make this mission happen.
We signed up for two packs—Friday and Saturday—and spent about two hours at each. Each packing session was preset with specific meals, and we worked on Spanish Rice and Tomato Basil. A fun fact we learned: these meals were designed by Iowa State University to be cooked using just boiling water. They are nutrient-dense, packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals, making them both simple to prepare and life-sustaining.
Here’s a quick look at what a packing shift involves:
Upon arrival, volunteers check in, grab a hairnet and apron, wash hands, and receive a station assignment.
Each station operates as a team, with roles like bag filling, measuring ingredients, scale-checking, heat sealing, and packing completed bags into boxes.
Volunteer guides are on hand to keep things running smoothly and answer any questions.
The best part? The bell. Whenever a team perfectly measured a meal bag, the bell rang, filling the room with cheers and laughter. It’s a small moment, but it added a sense of fun and accomplishment to the event. Combine this with music, great company, and a shared purpose, and it becomes clear why this was such a meaningful experience.
Why These Meals Matter
The meals created by The Outreach Program of Brainerd Lakes are not only nutritious but also accessible for families in need.
Key facts about the meals:
Each bag contains 6 servings and costs only $1.80 to produce.
Feeding a child breakfast, lunch, and dinner for an entire month costs just $30.
Meals require only 3-8 cups of boiling water to prepare.
Meal options include:
Rice & Bean
Spanish Rice
Rice Pudding Dessert
Apple Cinnamon Rice
Raisin Cinnamon Oatmeal
Cheesy Rice
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
Pasta with Tomato Basil Sauce
Deluxe Macaroni & Cheese Dinner
Minestrone Soup
These meals are free to the community with no questions asked. They are distributed through food shelves, community programs, school pantries, shelters, and other support networks to ensure no one goes hungry.
A Mission Born in the Community
Founded in 2012 by John Poston as Kids Against Hunger Brainerd Lakes, the organization began by addressing starvation abroad. Over time, they recognized that food insecurity was not just a global issue but one affecting families right here in Minnesota. In 2019, the organization rebranded as The Outreach Program of Brainerd Lakes, shifting its focus to local hunger relief while maintaining its commitment to international and disaster relief efforts.
Today, 80-90%Â of the meals packed stay in Minnesota, with the remaining 10-20%Â designated for emergencies like the recent hurricane relief effort.
Upcoming Events to Support Their Work
If you’re inspired by this mission and want to get involved, consider attending one of their upcoming fundraising events:
2025 Gull Lake Frozen Fore & Frozen Flop
February 21-23, 2025
2025 Fishing to End Hunger Tournament
October 4, 2025
Little Black Dress Event at Catalyst
October 23, 2025
For volunteer opportunities, visit their volunteer page to sign up and get involved.
A Heartfelt Thank You
To The Outreach Program of Brainerd Lakes: thank you for your passion, your tireless work, and your commitment to ensuring no child or family goes hungry. Volunteering with your program was a truly inspiring experience, and it was incredible to see so many community members come together for a common cause.
If you’re looking for a volunteer opportunity or a way to give back, start here. This program represents what makes the Nisswa Lakes Area so special: a caring community, driven individuals, and meaningful action.
We look forward to more opportunities to lend a helping hand and encourage others to join in the effort to make sure no one goes hungry. Together, we can end hunger… one meal at a time.
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