Ruby's Pantry - Brainerd Lakes Area

05/06/2026

Love it! Badly needed!

05/05/2026

A new option for groceries or volunteering.

04/13/2026

If you haven't heard yet, Ruby's Pantry is out of business and there will no longer be any distributions in any of the locations.

As the local distribution center we have heard very little as to why they suddenly closed the doors.

We have not found a suitable substitution at this time and are saddened by the loss of this great community service.

Thanks for being part of it over the years.

04/01/2026

Sad news:

"Greetings,

Over the past several months, we have been thoughtfully realigning the work, structure, and focus of Ruby's Pantry to ensure our mission remains at the center of everything we do. As part of this process, we have worked to better align community needs with our goal of operating in the most effective and seamless way possible.
As a result, we have decided to end the operations of Ruby's Pantry effective immediately. We recognize that this is difficult news to receive and do not take this decision lightly.

God has blessed Ruby's for over 20 years, and it has been an incredible journey. It all started from a vision to help others through a single blessing box. We are truly grateful for your contributions and dedication throughout your time with Ruby's Pantry. Thank you for the important role you have played on this journey and for the impact you have made in service of our mission

With gratitude,
Ruby's Pantry

03/13/2026

News From Ruby's Corporate Office:

Over the years, Ruby’s Pantry has worked very hard to operate with the lowest possible expenses so we can keep the suggested donation as affordable as possible for the families we serve. We have always tried to steward every dollar wisely while continuing to expand this ministry and reach more communities.

Recently, however, we have experienced some unexpected operational challenges that are affecting our overall costs. In particular, there has been a significant increase in fuel and insurance expenses, along with other rising operational costs that are necessary to transport and distribute food across our many sites.

After much discussion, prayer, and careful consideration, the Ruby’s Pantry Board has made the decision to implement a price adjustment beginning April 1, 2026:

• The suggested guest donation will temporarily increase from $25 to $30 per bundle.

These decisions were not made lightly. At the same time, this change is necessary so that Ruby’s Pantry can continue providing food to the growing number of families who rely on these distributions and remain financially sustainable for the future.

We are seeing more families stretched by inflation and rising living costs, and our desire is to continue serving them faithfully while also being good stewards of the resources God has entrusted to us.

03/10/2026

Special Labels for the March distribution.

Frozen Potatoes:
Preparation Instructions:

Boil-in-bag: place 1-2 product packages in a kettle with warm water. Cover kettle and bring water to a boil. Reduce heat to medium (slow boil) and heat for 25-30 minutes until product reaches a minimum temperature of 160 f. Do not overload the kettle as hot water will splatter.

Microwave: place potatoes in microwaveable container abd cover, stir potatoes and rotate container during heating. Heating time will vary depending on potato quantity and microwave wattage. Heat in 5 minute increments, stir and repeat until product reaches a
minimum temperature of 160f.

Steamer: place mashed potatoes in a pan and seal tightly. Heat for 15-30 minutes depending on steamer and amount of mashed potatoes used. Product must reach a minimum temperature of 160f.

Ingredients: potatoes, skim milk, butter (cream and salt), natural roasted garlic flavor, salt, disodium pyrophosphate (added to maintain color), potassium sorbate (added to maintain freshness) and spice.

Canned Tomatoes:
Whole Tomato Cans: ingredients tomatoes, tomato juice, salt, citric acid, calcium chloride.

Sauerkraut:
Sauerkraut ingredients: cabbage and salt. Best by date 10/2025

Send a message to learn more

03/10/2026

Distribution Today! (Tuesday)

02/10/2026

Distribution today from 4:30 to 6:00 pm at the Northern Pacific Center.

Possible food list:

Potatoes
Rice
Taco shells
Tortillas
Mustard
Paper products
Energy drinks
Snacks
Chips
Bread
Produce
Liquid eggs
Juice
Cheese
Chicken
Misc refrigerated
Night light
Shower head

$25.00 per share.
No registration required
No income restrictions

01/12/2026

Distribution this Tuesday.

12/09/2025

Because of this snowy weather and our Christmas cheer, we may be handing out extra food!! Come on out and join us! Even the Grinch is here!!