The Great Plains Food Bank receives milk donations from Cass-Clay Creamery

Fargo, North Dakota – Families in North Dakota are getting the nutrition they need thanks to a local dairy company called Cass-Clay and Hornbacher’s. Giving Cow milk was accepted by the Great Plains Food Bank, which will distribute the 24,576 cartons right away through its 200 partner food banks, shelters, and soup kitchens in Clay County, Minnesota, as well as through its programs and services.

As food pantries frequently lack enough refrigeration, milk is one of the most sought-after but least contributed goods, according to the food bank. The eight-ounce, single-serve 2% milk cartons have a shelf life of up to a year. Fresh milk typically has a shelf life of only 20 days after processing. The Giving Cow milk cartons are made especially for food banks and kid backpack initiatives to help battle poverty and feed underprivileged families.

“Refrigeration is a challenge for so many community food pantries, as it’s difficult for them to keep fresh foods like milk and other dairy products on hand,” says Rachel Kyllo, a spokesperson for Country Fresh. “As a dairy company, we want to ensure that milk is available for those that need it, and our shelf-stable Giving Cow milk cartons offer a great solution.”

“Cass Clay and Hornbacher’s continue to be tremendous partners in the fight to end hunger and we cannot thank them enough for their support,” Great Plains Food Bank CEO Melissa Sobolik said. “Milk remains one of the most requested items we distribute, but creates challenges in distribution due to its short shelf-life. The fact that this product is shelf-stable and is so needed is a win-win for the Great Plains Food Bank and the hungry neighbors we serve.”

Over 47,000 children and one in six people in North Dakota go without enough food to eat every day.