White Bear Lake, MN – May 31, 2024

The White Bear Area Food Shelf (WBAFS) proudly announces the completion and official opening of its newly renovated facility with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on May 31st, 2024! This event marks a significant milestone in the fight against food scarcity in the community, showcasing the collaborative efforts of local businesses and leaders dedicated to serving those in need.

The renovation project was made possible through the generous contributions of G5 Construction and Baker Associates. G5 Construction donated all its time and labor, in addition to the materials and services. Similarly, Baker Associates, known for its expertise in architecture and interior design in downtown Minneapolis, contributed its time and skills pro bono, ensuring that the facility not only meets but exceeds the community’s needs.

The ceremony featured prominent speakers, including Allison O’Toole, CEO of Second Harvest Heartland, and Minnesota State Senator Heather Gustafson. Their presence underscored the critical importance of addressing food insecurity in our region. Executive Director Perry Peterson of WBAFS highlighted the alarming 49% increase in demand for food assistance, emphasizing that the food shelf now serves approximately 145 people daily, which is an incredible accomplishment.

“Food scarcity is a pressing issue that affects everyone,” says Peterson. “With rising food costs, more families are struggling to make ends meet. Our new facility, supported by the incredible generosity of G5 Construction and Baker Associates, will allow us to better meet the growing needs of our community.”

WBAFS plays a crucial role in the community, serving over 43,000 people annually. The organization receives substantial donations from local grocers, including Cub Foods, Kowalski’s, Festival, and Fresh Thyme. These donations often consist of extra produce and other goods that would unfortunately go to waste. By repurposing these donations, WBAFS helps reduce food waste while providing essential support to those in need.

The new facility is a testament to what can be achieved when the community comes together to support a common cause. The improved space will enhance the Food Shelf’s ability to distribute food efficiently and with dignity, ensuring that no one in the White Bear area goes hungry.

For more information on the White Bear Area Food Shelf and how you can support their mission, visit their website or watch their feature on Kare 11.

If you would like to watch the ribbon-cutting ceremony, you can do so here!

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At G5 Construction, we’re building for the generations to come. We hold our values front and center of everything we do, which include; integrity, excellence, and trust. Through this, we’ve been able to successfully complete hundreds of commercial construction projects for businesses and clients across the nation for the past 45 years.