Front and Center, Inc.

OUR MISSION

Front and Center is a place where people may give or receive food, clothing, and nurturing with kindness and grace.

OUR BEGINNINGS

The Eyota Food Pantry was the Silver Award Project of local Girl Scouts in 2017, which saw a need for services and resources for those facing food insecurity. Due to significant community needs and impending high school graduation, the founding group of Girl Scouts began to seek assistance from other groups to continue their vision and mission. In 2020 a group of Eyota clergy and community members responded by incorporating a 501(c)3 non-profit called Front and Center Ministries, Inc., which includes the Eyota Food Pantry and Thrift on Front.

EYOTA FOOD PANTRY

Front and Center partners with the Channel One Regional Food Bank and participates in the Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) to provide food to any participant in need.  Community members, retail partners, and community groups in the greater Eyota area also provide financial support, food, and personal hygiene items. Further support comes through state and federal grants and community foundations. We currently distribute, on average, around 13,000 pounds of food in over 300 household visits monthly.

THRIFT ON FRONT

Thrift on Front is a thrift store that was established in 2020 to complement and support the food pantry. Community members donate clothing and household items, which are then sold at reasonable prices to the public. All proceeds from Thrift on Front support the Eyota Food Pantry operations.

OUR MISSION AND HOW WE ACCOMPLISH IT

Front and Center, Inc. is volunteer driven, maintaining an inclusive and safe place for all participants. Our Board of Directors strives to follow best practices for non-profits, always with an eye toward sustainability. We value our partnerships and take pride in our role in strengthening local individuals, families, schools, businesses and other community groups through collaboration and outreach. Our 30+ volunteers bring energy and positivity to our mission.