North Dakota Food Bank Sees 11% Rise in People Served

Great Plains Food Bank helped over 167,000 people in 2025, a significant increase from the previous year.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 7:27pm

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The Great Plains Food Bank in Fargo, North Dakota reported an 11% increase in the number of people it served in 2025 compared to 2024. The nonprofit organization provided food assistance to over 167,000 individuals, which equates to one in five people in the region. The increase was seen across all age groups, with 39% of those served being under 18 and 15% being 60 or older.

Why it matters

The rise in food insecurity in North Dakota and Clay County, Minnesota highlights the growing need for food assistance programs in the region. As more families, children, and older adults struggle to put food on the table, the Great Plains Food Bank plays a crucial role in addressing this issue and ensuring everyone has access to the nourishment they need.

The details

In 2025, the Great Plains Food Bank distributed more than 14.8 million pounds of food through its network of food pantries, shelters, meal sites, and direct service programs. The organization's CEO, Ann Prifrel, stated that this increase in demand reflects the reality that more people in the region are facing food insecurity and that the food bank is committed to meeting this growing need.

  • In 2025, the Great Plains Food Bank saw an 11% increase in the number of people it served compared to 2024.

The players

Great Plains Food Bank

A nonprofit organization that provides food assistance to individuals and families in North Dakota and Clay County, Minnesota.

Ann Prifrel

The CEO of the Great Plains Food Bank.

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What they’re saying

“This increase reflects our reality across our region that more families, children, and older adults are struggling to put food on the table. At the same time, it reinforces our responsibility to respond. We are committed to meeting this growing need while expanding our reach, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring everyone has access to the food they need to live and thrive.”

— Ann Prifrel, CEO, Great Plains Food Bank

The takeaway

The significant increase in the number of people served by the Great Plains Food Bank highlights the ongoing struggle with food insecurity in North Dakota and Clay County, Minnesota. As the demand for food assistance continues to grow, the organization remains committed to expanding its reach, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring that everyone in the region has access to the nourishment they need.