Operation Sandwich

Operation Sandwich is a grassroots program with the goal to provide consistent food security for kids when school isn't in session. We provide lunch and snack kits during every school break and every week during summer break. Thanks to our generous community, Operation Sandwich served more than 45,000 lunches in 2024.

During the summer, Operation Sandwich has six pickup locations throughout the Brainerd Lakes Area: Brainerd, Crosslake, Jenkins, Nisswa, Pequot Lakes, and Pine River. During the school year, distribution is available at our Brainerd, Pequot Lakes, and Pine River pickup locations only.

Looking to get signed up for a distribution? See upcoming opportunities below!
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Volunteers are the key to Operation Sandwich success! Volunteers unload food delivery trucks, pack lunches and distribute on pickup day. Serve by yourself, with family, or a group from work! Click below to see what opportunities are available.

VOLUNTEER

MEA Registration Opening Sept. 30th

Our last summer distribution was on Thursday, August 21st.

‍Please keep watching for more information on the MEA Break distribution.
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If you have questions about Operation Sandwich, please call our office at 218.825.7682 or email info@bridgesofhopemn.org

PICK UP LOCATIONS:

BRAINERD

The Bridge on 7th
1926 S 7th Street
12-1PM

NISSWA

Lutheran Church of the Cross
5064 County Road 13
10:30-11AM

PEQUOT LAKES

Our Savior's Lutheran
Church
30985 Front Street
11:30AM-12PM

JENKINS

Veteran's Park
MN 371 & Third Street
11:30AM-12PM

PINE RIVER

First Lutheran Church
309 2nd Street North
11:30AM-12PM

CROSSLAKE

Crosslake Community School
35808 County Road 66
11-11:30AM

Thank You for Making a Difference!

‍This summer, thanks to your incredible generosity, we reached our $100,000 fundraising goal for Operation Sandwich! Because of you, local children and families received over 28,000 nutritious lunches so far this summer. With 6 distributions left, our team is excited to continue serving our neighbors this summer.

We are especially grateful to our matching sponsors, Katie and Biff Ulm, owners of Zaiser’s and Nice Enough, whose compassion and commitment ensured that every donation was matched dollar-for-dollar, up to $50,000. Their support doubled the impact of every gift.

To all who donated, volunteered, or helped spread the word, thank you. Your support ensures that no child in our community goes hungry. Together, we’re building a stronger, more connected community, because Better Times Begin Here.

DONATE

THANK YOU LUNCH SPONSORS!

Distribution Information