The Salvation Army's service center in north Minneapolis has reopened after a major upgrade that now includes hot meals for the needy, remodeled offices and a fitness center.

"We are poised like never before to serve north Minneapolis with new programs," Capt. Jim Brickson, who heads the center near Lyndale Avenue N. and W. Broadway, said in a statement Wednesday announcing the center's reopening. "[We] consider ourselves blessed and ready to answer our calling to serve this neighborhood and the people who live here."

The fitness center is outfitted with weight equipment donated by Snap Fitness in Eagan.

The reception area and space where clients meet with staff members were both remodeled. The center grew by roughly 1,400 square feet during the makeover.

The newly offered hot meals are served from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for 100 to 150 people, with tables set up in the facility's gym.

Many basic needs are met at the center, including a food shelf that operates daily, activities for children and worship opportunities.

Dennis McGrath
New weight equipment and improved food services are among the upgrades at the Salvation Army service center in north Minneapolis.

In another change, the food shelf will operate more like a grocery, with clients choosing their items, rather than having volunteers pack up bags for them.

"This consumer-choice model creates a better experience for our guests, and limits waste, as people only take the food they really want," Brickson said.

Across the metro area, the Salvation Army serves 187,000 people annually, providing 3,800 meals daily and sheltering nearly 900 each night.

Paul Walsh • 612-673-4482