Coon Rapids and Anoka Face Off in Friendly Food Drive Challenge to Support ACBC Food Shelf Ahead of the Holidays

COON RAPIDS, Minn. — November 7, 2025 — In a spirited show of civic pride and community compassion, Coon Rapids Mayor Jerry Koch has launched a friendly food drive challenge against Anoka Mayor Erik Skogquist to support the Anoka County Brotherhood Council (ACBC) Food Shelf. The intercity competition, announced by the City of Coon Rapids, aims to see which city can collect the greatest total weight of non-perishable food donations to help local families in need this holiday season.

The Food Drive Competition runs from Monday, November 10 through Friday, November 21, providing residents, businesses, and community groups in both cities with a unique opportunity to turn friendly rivalry into real impact. Donations from Coon Rapids residents can be dropped off at Coon Rapids City Hall (11155 Robinson Drive NW) during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. City Hall will be closed Tuesday, November 11, in observance of Veterans Day.

Organizers have emphasized the importance of donating high-need food and household items to help stock the ACBC Food Shelf, which serves families throughout Anoka County. The most-requested donations include:

• Protein sources: canned meats, beans, and peanut butter
• Canned and packaged goods: fruits and vegetables
• Pantry staples: grains, pasta, cooking, and baking essentials
• Other necessities: hygiene products and cleaning supplies

Monetary contributions will also be accepted, with every dollar helping ACBC purchase fresh foods and essentials to meet specific needs within the community.

“Healthy competition like this brings out the best in our cities,” said Mayor Jerry Koch in a city statement. “It’s a fun way to rally community spirit while making sure no one in Anoka County goes hungry.”

Mayor Erik Skogquist of Anoka echoed the sentiment, adding that the event “reminds us that when cities collaborate—even in friendly rivalry—the real winners are the families who benefit.”

Once the food drive concludes on November 21, the collected donations from both cities will be weighed to determine the winner. Regardless of the outcome, both communities are expected to provide a significant boost to ACBC’s shelves during one of the most demanding times of the year.

The ACBC Food Shelf, headquartered in Anoka, has served local families for more than 50 years, providing food assistance, hygiene products, and essential household items to residents facing hardship. As the holiday season approaches, food shelves across Minnesota have reported growing demand due to rising food costs and seasonal financial pressures.

City officials encourage residents to join the cause, bring non-perishable items, and help Mayor Koch and Coon Rapids “bring home the win”—all while fighting hunger and strengthening community ties.

Residents can learn more about the competition and donation guidelines by visiting the official City of Coon Rapids website:

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