CAER Food Shelf Donations and Volunteering in Otsego, MN

Since 1979, CAER Food Shelf has relied on the generosity and dedication of community members in Otsego, MN to continue to provide for local families in need through donations, volunteering, and more.

About Us

For decades, CAER Food Shelf has provided food, household products, resources, and more with the goal of relieving hunger and financial strain for local families in need. With your help, we can ensure everyone in our community has access to the things they need so that hunger is no longer a barrier to the health and well-being of our friends and neighbors.

From donating goods to volunteering and more, there are plenty of ways to get involved, share your time, and make a difference.

CAER Food Shelf Programs in Otsego, MN

More than a food shelf, CAER goes beyond food distribution to provide other goods and resources for Otsego, MN families in need. From winter gear and school supplies to reduced-price groceries, housing assistance, and more, we make it easy to find help when asking for it can be difficult.

Food Shelf Donations in Otsego, MN

Every month, CAER provides food and other items to more than 750 households in and aroundOtsego, MN. We gladly accept donations of nonperishable food, personal health and hygiene items, household cleaning products, and more throughout each week.

Donations can be dropped off during these hours:


  • Monday: 9 a.m.–3 p.m.
  • Wednesday: 9 a.m.–3 p.m.
  • Thursday: noon–5 p.m.
  • Friday: 9 a.m.–3 p.m.


Please go to the door at the back of the building and ring the bell to drop off your donation. For donations outside regular hours, please call 763.441.1020 to set up a time. Also note: We are unable to accept individual donations of frozen or refrigerated meat.

Donating School Supplies and Winter Wear in Otsego, MN

In addition to food and other products, donations of new, unused school supplies are accepted from May through September to distribute to students in need in Otsego, MN before the start of each school year. CAER also relies on generous donations of new and gently used winter items from September through March to help more local youth and adults stay warm.

Food Shelf Volunteering in Otsego, MN

Food shelf volunteers are so important to the work we do, and CAER has plenty of opportunities for community members in Otsego, MN who want to help.

Volunteers help clients shop, stock and rotate food shelf items, weigh and bag food and products, prepare Kids Weekend CAER Packages, check expiration dates, and more. Many of the volunteer jobs require the ability to stand, bend, and lift (sometimes 20 pounds or more). We also have volunteer opportunities for those who may have physical limitations; please let us know when applying, and we can accommodate.

Volunteering at CAER Food Shelf is open to anyone 18 years and older. While there is no minimum requirement for volunteering, we prefer candidates who can commit to 2–4 shifts per month.

Apply today to become a part of the CAER team and help our community through volunteer opportunities.

Helping Families in Otsego, MN

Every month, CAER provides food and other items to more than 750 households in and around Otsego, MN. With your help, we can continue to provide support and relieve hunger in our community. Contact us today to learn more about ways to get involved.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What items does CAER offer?

    CAER Food Shelf provides local families in need with fresh fruits and vegetables, dairy, eggs, meat, fish, and bakery items as well as nonperishable food options. Clients select the foods that best suit their family’s needs. We also distribute household products, personal care items, winter wear (seasonal), and school supplies (seasonal).

  • What items can I donate?

    CAER’s programs provide food as well as other goods for local families in need. We gladly accept donations of:


    • Nonperishable food items
    • Books
    • New school supplies and backpacks (from May–September)
    • Winter gear and weatherproof outerwear (from September–March)

    CAER also accepts monetary donations. Checks can be made out to CAER Food Shelf and dropped off or mailed to:


     12621 Elk Lake Road

     Elk River, MN 55330


  • When can I drop off donations?

    We accept donations of food, personal health and hygiene items, and household cleaning products throughout the week. 


    • Monday: 9 a.m.–3 p.m.
    • Wednesday: 9 a.m.–3 p.m.
    • Thursday: noon–5 p.m.
    • Friday: 9 a.m.–3 p.m.

    To drop off items, please go to the door at the back of the building and ring the bell. For donation times outside of regular hours, please call 763.441.1020. 


  • How can I become a volunteer?

    From helping clients shop to stocking shelves and more, CAER has plenty of volunteer opportunities available. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old and preferably able to commit to 2–4 volunteer shifts each month. Fill out our online form to apply.