For the past 20+ years the Canadian Pacific Holiday Train has stopped in our communities with a trainload of fun and entertainment.  The Cottage Grove Holiday Train Committee organizes the event and pre-stop fundraising.  All cash and personal care item donations collected at our “Stop” go directly to our local Friends in Need Food Shelf; serving the residents of Cottage Grove, Grey Cloud Island, Newport and St. Paul Park.  The Virtual Silent Auction is great part of this entire fundraiser.  Last year the entire fund-raising activities netted $172,278.25 representing one-fourth of the food shelf’s annual budget. 

Friends in Need Food Shelf is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.  We have been serving our communities since 1992.  We distribute fresh produce, deli, dairy, meat, milk, eggs, non-perishables, toiletries, and pet food in a grocery store-style setting.  We are able to provide food deliveries to clients in our service area, as required.  We also have an Emergency Fund to assist low-income clients with medical prescriptions, eyeglasses, essential bills or other emergency needs.  Last year it served around 28,000 people.  

We are looking for items to auction such as Gift Baskets, Gift Cards, Artwork, Sporting Event Tickets or Memorabilia, Toys or “An Experience”.  Your company’s name will be recognized on the Virtual Silent Auction website with the item you donated.  

We would appreciate your donation to be received by Friday November 10th.  We are able to pick-up local donations or donation can be dropped off or sent to the Friends in Need Food Shelf at 535 4th St. St. Paul Park.  Please call ahead for drop-offs.  Alternate address for drops is available.   Gift cards can be mailed to Friends in Need Food Shelf, P.O. Box 6, Cottage Grove, MN 55016.  

Thank you for your consideration! We would very much appreciate your support of our cause, and we hope you’ll consider making a positive difference with a generous donation.