Host a Food Drive

Help support local families and fight food insecurity in our community by hosting a food drive to benefit CAER. Food drives can be large or small and happen any time of year.


We would love to know about your event. Please click the button below to register your food drive and keep us informed.

Food Drive Resources

Flyers, signs, and other things to get you started:

Most Needed Items

  • Ketchup
  • Baking ingredients:
  • Flour, sugar, spices, and oil
  • Peanut butter and jelly
  • Canned chicken or tuna
  • Canned fruits and vegetables
  • Coffee
  • Paper towels
  • Laundry soap

Hygiene Items

  • Toothbrushes
  • Toothpaste
  • Menstrual supplies
  • Bar soap
  • Deodorant
  • Baby wipes

Donations can be dropped off at:

12621 Elk Lake Road

Elk River, MN 55330


Door C (Back of the Building)

Monday           9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Wednesday    9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. 

Thursday        3:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

Friday               9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What types of things can I donate?

    • Non-perishable food 
    • Hygiene and menstrual products
    • Diapers
    • Household goods
    • Fresh garden produce (seasonal)
    • Books for children and adults
    • Winter coats, gloves, snow pants, and boots (October–February)
    • New school supplies (July–August)

  • Are there any items CAER cannot accept?

    • Perishable food items
    • Fresh/frozen meats, such as turkeys
    • Venison or other fresh game. Hunters who would like to safely donate fresh game can find information for doing so on the MDA website.
    • Furniture, household items, etc.
    • Clothing
    • Non-perishable food products that are more than a year beyond their best-by date 

  • When can I drop off donations?

    To drop off items, please go to the door at the back of the building and ring the bell. If you have any questions, please give us a call at 763-441-1020.


    Donation Hours

    Monday 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.

    Wednesday 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.

    Thursday 3:00 p.m.–6:30 p.m.

    Friday 9:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.


  • Can I make a cash donation to CAER?

    Yes, CAER gladly accepts monetary donations. You can make donations online, drop them off in person, or mail checks payable to CAER Food Shelf at:


    CAER Food SHelf

     12621 Elk Lake Road

     Elk River, MN 55330

    Make a Donation

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