Coon Rapids and Anoka Step Up in Friendly Food Drive Challenge as Early Results Show Strong Community Support

COON RAPIDS, Minn. — November 7, 2025 — The friendly food drive competition between Coon Rapids Mayor Jerry Koch and Anoka Mayor Erik Skogquist is off to a strong start, with early results signaling remarkable community engagement and generosity. The Coon Rapids Police Department (CRPD) has already reported collecting 482 pounds of non-perishable food donations in just two days, all delivered to the Anoka County Brotherhood Council (ACBC) Food Shelf to help families in need across the region.

The Mayoral Food Drive Challenge, which runs from Monday, November 10 through Friday, November 21, invites residents of both cities to compete for a good cause—seeing which community can collect the greatest total weight of donations. The campaign benefits the ACBC Food Shelf, a cornerstone nonprofit serving Anoka County for over five decades.

Strong Early Response Spurs Momentum

The CRPD’s early success has inspired city leaders to rally even more participation. Officers and staff are encouraging residents to keep the momentum going by dropping off non-perishable food, hygiene items, and household supplies at donation sites across the city. A drop-off box remains available at the Coon Rapids Police Department, while Coon Rapids City Hall is also serving as a primary collection point.

“Healthy competition like this brings out the best in our community,” said Mayor Jerry Koch, who launched the citywide challenge earlier this month. “Every can, box, or dollar collected directly supports local families through ACBC. We’re showing that Coon Rapids not only cares—but acts.”

Anoka Mayor Erik Skogquist echoed the collaborative spirit, emphasizing that the goal is shared impact, not just civic bragging rights. “When cities work together, everyone wins—especially those who rely on the support and compassion of their neighbors,” Skogquist said in a city post promoting the drive.

How Residents Can Participate

Coon Rapids residents can drop off donations at City Hall (11155 Robinson Drive NW) during normal 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 outlined high-priority donation items to help meet ongoing community needs:

• Protein items: canned meats, beans, and peanut butter
• Canned and packaged goods: fruits and vegetables
• Staples: grains, pasta, and baking essentials
• Household and hygiene supplies: soap, cleaning products, and toiletries

Monetary donations are also accepted and will count toward each city’s total contribution, allowing ACBC to purchase fresh food and specialty items for families in need.

Fighting Hunger, Strengthening Community

The ACBC Food Shelf, based in Anoka, continues to face increased demand as inflation and seasonal costs strain household budgets. Programs like the Coon Rapids–Anoka Food Drive Challenge have become essential in maintaining local food security during the holiday season.

“The need is growing, and community partnerships like this one are vital,” an ACBC spokesperson noted. “Every donation helps ensure our shelves stay stocked and our neighbors stay nourished.”

The winning city will be announced after November 21, once all donations are weighed and verified. But organizers agree the real success lies in the collective effort—neighbors helping neighbors to ensure no family in Anoka County goes hungry.

For more information on donation guidelines or to get involved, visit the official City of Coon Rapids website: https://www.coonrapidsmn.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=4733

MinneapoliMedia