Coon Rapids and Anoka Step Up in Friendly Food Drive Challenge to Support ACBC Food Shelf as Early Results Pour In

COON RAPIDS, Minn. — November 14, 2025 — The friendly food drive competition between Coon Rapids Mayor Jerry Koch and Anoka Mayor Erik Skogquist is well underway — and early results show strong momentum. The challenge, which began Monday, November 10, continues through Friday, November 21, as both cities rally residents to support the Anoka County Brotherhood Council (ACBC) Food Shelf and fight local hunger.

The Coon Rapids Police Department (CRPD) reported an impressive start, collecting 482 pounds of non-perishable food donations within the first two days of the drive. Those donations have already been delivered to ACBC to assist families across Anoka County.

Coon Rapids Calls on Residents to Help “Win While Doing Good”

The City of Coon Rapids is encouraging residents to help Mayor Jerry Koch secure victory in the friendly rivalry — while making a meaningful difference for those in need.

“Help Coon Rapids Mayor Jerry Koch win a friendly competition with Anoka Mayor Erik Skogquist while helping those in need!” the city announced in a recent civic alert. “The goal of the Food Drive Competition is to see which city can collect the most pounds of non-perishable food for the ACBC Food Shelf.”

Residents can drop off donations 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 was closed Tuesday, November 11 in observance of Veterans Day.

A collection box also remains available at the Coon Rapids Police Department, giving residents another convenient way to participate.

High-Priority Donation Items

Organizers emphasize the importance of contributing nutrient-rich, shelf-stable foods and essential household products to help restock ACBC’s inventory ahead of the holidays. Most-needed donations include:

• Protein sources: canned meats, beans, and peanut butter
• Canned and packaged goods: fruits and vegetables
• Pantry staples: grains, pasta, and baking items
• Hygiene and cleaning supplies

Monetary donations are also accepted and will count toward each city’s total, enabling ACBC to purchase fresh food and specific household essentials for families in need.

Community Momentum Builds

The CRPD’s early success has fueled excitement across the city. Officers have encouraged residents to “keep the generosity flowing” throughout the remaining week.

“Healthy competition like this brings out the best in our communities,” said Mayor Jerry Koch. “Every can, box, and dollar helps our neighbors. It’s about more than winning — it’s about showing how strong Coon Rapids’ community spirit truly is.”

Mayor Erik Skogquist shared similar sentiments from Anoka, noting that both cities share the same goal: “helping local families thrive.”

Ongoing Need and Local Impact

The ACBC Food Shelf, based in Anoka, continues to report increased demand as families face rising costs and seasonal expenses. Drives like this play a critical role in providing food security throughout Anoka County and surrounding communities.

“The need is especially high this time of year,” an ACBC spokesperson said. “We’re grateful to both cities and their residents for coming together to support local families.”

The friendly competition will continue through Friday, November 21, when all donations will be weighed to determine which city claims the victory. But for organizers and participants alike, the real success is measured in full shelves and fed families.

Let’s go, Coon Rapids!

For more details about the Food Drive Competition, including donation guidelines and updates, visit the official City of Coon Rapids website

MinneapoliMedia