Essentia Health is a vital partner in our hunger-relief work. Over the last 17 years, Essentia’s financial, food and volunteer contributions have resulted in 1.5 million meals for our Northland neighbors in need.

“It is very rewarding to know the food we donate goes directly to people in need in our communities,” said Executive Chef, Chad Nurminen. “We like partnering with Second Harvest because they ensure our unused meals are properly handled and make it safely to those in need.”

In 2016, Essentia Health’s generosity and support allowed our food bank to transform its food shelf from a traditional model into a healthier program. Our new program allows food shelf participants to make the healthy choice, the easy choice – directly reflecting Essentia’s mission to make a healthy difference in people’s lives.

“Partnering with Second Harvest was a no-brainer,” Nurminen said. “As a community partner we benefit by supporting organizations that support the communities we serve.”