MINNEAPOLIMEDIA NEWS | COMMUNITY & FOOD ACCESS: SACA Opens Expanded Food Shelf and Thrift Store in Columbia Heights, Launches Walk-In Community Market Model

COLUMBIA HEIGHTS, MN (April 15, 2026)

Southern Anoka Community Assistance (SACA) has opened a new, expanded facility at 3905 California Street NE, marking a significant shift in how the organization delivers food assistance and low-cost goods to residents across southern Anoka County.

The site, which began operations on April 13, is part of SACA’s “Building Bright Futures” expansion project and replaces its previous location with a higher-capacity model designed to improve access, reduce wait times, and increase service volume.

Facility Upgrades and Access

The new building includes a larger parking lot on the north side of the property, addressing congestion issues that limited access at the prior site. The expanded layout is intended to accommodate both clients and donors.

To manage flow, SACA has implemented a buzzer-based check-in system. Visitors receive a pager upon arrival and are notified when it is their turn to enter the food shelf. The system allows individuals to wait in their vehicles or use the on-site thrift store rather than stand in line.

SACA reports that wait times during the first week of operation have generally remained under five minutes.

Transition to Walk-In Community Market

The organization has transitioned from an appointment-based food shelf to a walk-in Community Market model operating Monday through Thursday.

Under the system, residents can access groceries without appointments and may visit as often as needed. The market is structured to allow individuals to select items directly, similar to a retail environment.

Weekday distributions prioritize perishable foods, including produce, dairy, and bread, which are often less accessible through traditional food shelf models.

Current hours of operation are:

• Monday: 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
• Tuesday: 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
• Wednesday: 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
• Thursday: 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Friday Drive-Through Program

SACA plans to add a Friday drive-through distribution program beginning in May 2026.

The program will focus primarily on non-perishable pantry items, including canned and boxed goods, rice, and other shelf-stable products. Fresh items may be distributed through the drive-through when supply allows.

The drive-through model is intended to provide a faster option for residents with limited time or mobility constraints.

Thrift Store Operations

The new facility integrates SACA’s thrift store alongside the food shelf. The store provides low-cost clothing and household goods and serves as a revenue source supporting food distribution.

SACA states that proceeds from thrift store sales contribute directly to food purchasing capacity, with each dollar generating multiple pounds of food for distribution.

Donations of gently used clothing, shoes, and household items are accepted Monday through Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the north entrance. The organization does not accept large furniture, appliances, or electronics due to space limitations.

Organizational Transition

The facility expansion coincides with a leadership transition at SACA. The organization is currently led by Interim Executive Director Andréa Kish-Bailey while its board conducts a search for a permanent executive director.

SACA officials state the new facility is intended to position the organization for increased demand and long-term service delivery.

Regional Context

The expansion comes amid sustained demand for food assistance across the Twin Cities region, with food shelves reporting increased usage tied to rising food costs and economic pressures.

SACA serves Columbia Heights and surrounding communities, providing food access, clothing, and household support through a combination of on-site services and distribution programs.

Additional updates, including the launch of the Friday drive-through program, are expected in the coming weeks.

MinneapoliMedia | Community. Culture. Civic Life.