Crunch Time for Coon Rapids: Mayor Koch Issues Final Push in Friendly “Border-Battle” Food Drive

COON RAPIDS, Minn. — With just two days remaining in the spirited food drive competition between the cities of Coon Rapids and Anoka, Mayor Jerry Koch is urging residents to clear their pantries and rally their neighbors to help secure a victory in the non-perishable food collection challenge. The contest — which began Monday, Nov. 10, and runs through Friday, Nov. 21 — pits Koch against Anoka Mayor Erik Skogquist in a friendly duel to see which community can donate the greatest total weight of food to the ACBC Food Shelf.

While bragging rights are on the line, the true winner is the ACBC Food Shelf, a vital resource for families in need across Anoka County.

The Stakes & Early Standings

The drive launched with the goal of fostering community pride while providing tangible support to local residents. According to Mayor Koch, the Coon Rapids Police Department alone collected 482 pounds of food in the first two days, signaling a strong early showing for the city.

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

Mayor Skogquist of Anoka echoed the sentiment, emphasizing that the competition is ultimately about community collaboration. “When cities work together, everyone wins,” he said.

Why It Matters Now

The ACBC Food Shelf, founded in 1971, provides food, clothing, and hygiene products to residents across Anoka County. In 2024, the organization distributed more than 1.4 million pounds of food to 77,889 individual visits across 23,106 households. Demand continues to rise due to inflation, seasonal heating costs, and an expanding senior population.

The mayoral challenge provides critical support at a time when local families face increased need, ensuring that ACBC shelves are stocked ahead of the holidays.

How to Help — Final Push Checklist

Drop-Off Location: Coon Rapids City Hall, 11155 Robinson Drive NW
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
Alternative Drop-Off: Coon Rapids Police Department

Priority Items:

• Proteins: Canned meats (tuna, chicken), peanut butter, canned beans
• Pantry Staples: Pasta, rice, grains, flour, sugar, oil
• Canned Goods: Fruits and vegetables
• Non-Food Essentials: Hygiene items (soap, shampoo, toothpaste) and cleaning supplies

Monetary donations are also accepted at City Hall and count toward the city’s total “weight,” allowing ACBC to purchase fresh produce and perishable items.

Deadline: Close of business, Friday, Nov. 21. The city with the greater total weight collected will be declared the winner.

The Takeaway

What began as a friendly competition between two neighboring mayors has evolved into a meaningful community effort. Municipal pride is fueling charitable giving, and the real victory is the support provided to families relying on ACBC’s services.

Mayor Koch urged residents: “The next 48 hours are the time to act. Every donation counts, and together we can make a real difference for our neighbors.”

For More Information:

• City of Coon Rapids Official Website

• ACBC Food Shelf Official Website

Contact:

• City of Coon Rapids: (763) 755-2880
• ACBC Food Shelf: (763) 422-0046

MinneapoliMedia