We are all aware of the devastating effects of COVID-19, not only on people’s health but also on their well-being. As the pandemic began, members of MNIPL generously donated to our efforts in supporting Duluth area nonprofits serving those in need. Thanks to you, this spring we delivered $4000 of meals, groceries, and additional support to those most in need. The beneficiaries were AICHO, Gloria Dei/CHUM Warming Shelter, Life House, Loaves & Fishes, and the Steve O’Neil Apartments.

As we move into the Fall and communicate with our partners, we realize that the need to support others in our community continues to be high, whose needs continue to be magnified by this global crisis. We thus plan to restart “Duluth COVID Community Support Actions” every month at an average cost of $750 per month.

But we jumped into this with both feet right off the bat, as we are currently working with the Whole Foods Coop and Gloria Dei Lutheran Church to provide for the 80 children at AICHO and Steve O’Neil Apartments that have had their school district lunches discontinued over the next 2 weeks. This is a normal course of action by the district for all their low income meals prior to the start of a new school year, but of course these are not normal times. Between donations from WFC, Gloria Dei, and our own members, we have already raised the $3300 necessary to make this happen!!

But we still need your help. We invite you to join us with your tax-deductible contributions to support our ongoing and upcoming community support efforts with the partners mentioned above; frankly, we can’t do it without you! You can make an online donation here:  COVID Community Support or mail checks to MNIPL to 4407 East Lake Street, Minneapolis, MN 55406.  Please write COVID Community Support in the memo line.

We remain an organization committed to climate justice and this concern compels us to care for and assist those in our community who are most in need during these trying times. Thank you for helping us help others.