The first step to starting your SuperShelf transformation is completing an interest form. For more information reach out to [email protected].
SuperShelf helps food shelf managers provide a variety of nutritious food in the easiest and most dignified way possible. Based on over a decade of research and experience working with food shelves across Minnesota, Extension’s team of SNAP-Ed health and wellness coordinators has helped more than 80 food shelves reduce stigma and promote shopper choice by improving the layout of their physical spaces.
Discover more success stories, events, and resources in our monthly SuperShelf newsletter.
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SuperShelf shoutout: La Crescent Food Shelf
La Crescent Food Shelf transitioned to the SuperShelf model when it moved locations in 2020. The day after receiving their SuperShelf certification, they had to switch to curbside distribution due to COVID-19. They continued offering as many choices to shoppers as possible by taking orders over the phone, online, and from cars waiting in line until in-person shopping returned.
"Our transformation has truly been as much one of our hearts and mindsets, as much as it was our space and equipment," says Program Manager Susan Oddsen. Staff worked to move past fears of running out of food and focused on demonstrating respect, building relationships, and trusting shoppers. They are proud to have maintained their SuperShelf for five years and now can't imagine their food shelf any other way.
Food safety focus
Warm weather increases the risk of cold foods entering the temperature “danger zone” between 41°F and 135°F. Follow these tips when receiving deliveries or donations:
- Use a food thermometer to check temperatures.
- Accept fluid milk and shell eggs at 45°F or cooler and chill to 41°F or below.
- Accept cut produce at 41°F or cooler and refrigerate immediately.
- Accept fresh meat, poultry, fish, dairy products and plant-based proteins at 41°F or below and immediately refrigerate.
- Receive frozen foods at 32°F or below and freeze promptly. Avoid packages with ice crystals.
- Store cold items in the refrigerator or freezer. Never leave them out.
SuperShelf office hours: Manager Survey Data Party
Over 300 survey responses have been collected from food shelf managers across the state. The University of Minnesota Extension evaluation team has been hard at work quality checking these results and starting statewide and regional analysis. Join these important discussions and share your unique perspective as a member of the hunger relief system.
What is a data party?
- A group gathering to understand and interpret data together
- Breakout sessions for deeper engagement with your peers and community members
- A way to continue to influence data reports and next steps
Learn more about virtual data parties
Discussions and themes from the data party will be incorporated into final versions of reports. Anticipated timeline for Manager Survey Report release is August 2025. If you have any questions, please reach out to [email protected].
The Minnesota Food Shelf Manager Survey is a collaboration between University of Minnesota Extension, Foundation for Essential Needs the Food Group and the Minnesota Department of Children, Youth, and Families.