Foodshare facts

• Eighty percent of contributions to Minnesota food shelves come from individuals.

• March and the Thanksgiving to Christmas season are the two most important times for contributions.

• Minnesotans made more than 2 million visits to FoodShare food shelves in 2007 (includes multiple visits by individuals and families).

• Many families in crisis use food shelves only once a year, but the average is five to six visits per year. Five percent go to the shelf monthly.

• Minnesota FoodShare began in 1983 with co-sponsorship by Cargill, General Mills and Pillsbury as well as the Greater Minneapolis Council of Churches.

• To find a food shelf near you or to make a donation, call 651-721-8687, ext. 331, or go to www.minnesotafoodshare.org.