The Salvation Army Continues Longtime Thanksgiving Tradition in NE Minneapolis

A longtime Thanksgiving tradition in Northeast Minneapolis continued Nov. 18 when The Salvation Army and two local churches distributed 250 food baskets to families in need.

Individuals and families lined up at the Elim Church of Northeast Minneapolis for baskets filled with fresh produce, stuffing, mashed potatoes and more, all accompanied with a $15 Rainbow Foods gift certificate to purchase turkey, ham, or other holiday meats.

The effort was part of a longstanding partnership between The Salvation Army, Elim Church, and Christ Presbyterian Church in Edina.

"To run this program, The Salvation Army finds the people, Christ Presbyterian buys the food, and Elim Church provides the distribution space,” said Diane Mehok of the Central Ave. Salvation Army in Northeast Minneapolis.

Mehok has been involved with the program since it began about 20 years ago.

“This is my neighborhood – I grew up here,” she said. “I know this program is a real treat for the community.”

Duane Stenzel agrees. He lives a few blocks from Elim Church and was the first person in line to pick up a Thanksgiving feast. He arrived on his electric scooter, then putted home with a tall bag of groceries between his legs.  

“I think it’s great that these organizations are helping people in need,” said Stenzel, who planned to buy a turkey with his $15 certificate. “I’ll probably share my turkey with my neighbors. Once I start making it, I know they’ll smell it. Then it’s just a matter of time before they’re knocking on my door.”

View photos of the basket distribution.