A Message From Leah, July 2026

Dear Open Arms Community,

July 1, 2026, marked the start of a new fiscal year for Open Arms. As we reflect on the past year – and the more than 1.3 million meals we provided our neighbors in need – I am filled with gratitude for this extraordinary community. Because of your generosity and commitment, thousands of Minnesotans facing serious illness receive the medically tailored meals and nutrition support they need to heal, recover, and live with greater independence. Together, we are ensuring that no one has to face a critical illness alone.

Over the past year, there were some remarkable moments to celebrate. Last summer, our volunteer program was named the Gold Medalist in the Place to Volunteer category in the annual Minnesota’s Best Awards, recognizing the extraordinary community that powers our mission. Our groundbreaking Cultural Meals Program received the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits’ Mission Award for Innovation, honoring our commitment to providing care that is both nutritious and culturally meaningful. And our signature fundraising event, Moveable Feast, reached new heights, raising a record-breaking amount in a single evening.

While we are deeply honored by these recognitions, what they represent matters even more – the dedication of supporters like you. Your partnership has enabled Open Arms to remain the only provider of medically tailored meals in our region, serving people whose health and quality of life depend on access to nutritious food. At a time when many essential services are shrinking, your support has never been more important.

Meeting a Growing Need
The need for medically tailored nutrition continues to grow across Minnesota. Over the past five years, grocery prices have increased by more than 30 percent, while public food assistance programs have been reduced. In addition, rates of many serious diseases, like End Stage Renal Disease and Congestive Heart Failure are rising in Minnesota, while the cost of healthcare increases. Together, these pressures have made it increasingly difficult for vulnerable people living with serious illnesses to manage their health, as well as afford and access the nutritious food they need to improve their health and live independently.

As a result, more families are turning to Open Arms not only for medically tailored meals, but also for support that helps caregivers and family member remain healthy and resilient.

Our reach continues to extend far beyond the Twin Cities. Through home delivery, statewide meal shipments, and virtual nutrition counseling, we are serving clients in rural communities where healthy food may be hours away and access to specialized nutrition support is limited. For many, Open Arms is not simply convenient, it is essential.

Navigating a Changing Funding Landscape
Like many nonprofit organizations, we are adapting to a rapidly changing funding environment. This year, Open Arms experienced the loss of more than $1 million in public funding through the discontinuation of the Minnesota Prepared Meals Grant Program, and through reductions to senior nutrition dollars and Ryan White Act funding. These reductions will have the greatest impact on older adults, rural communities, and people living with HIV.

At the same time, we see tremendous opportunities ahead. Healthcare providers, insurers, and policymakers are increasingly recognizing that medically tailored nutrition is a vital part of improving health outcomes and reducing healthcare costs. Open Arms is actively exploring new partnerships across the healthcare sector while pursuing innovative collaborations that can expand access to our services and strengthen our long-term sustainability. Although many of these opportunities are still taking shape, we are encouraged by the growing recognition that Food Is Medicine is not just a compassionate approach—it is an evidence-based investment in healthier communities. We believe these emerging partnerships will position Open Arms to reach more people, deepen our impact, and build an even stronger future.

Caring for the Whole Person
Medically tailored meals remain at the heart of everything we do. Every meal is thoughtfully prepared to support treatment, reduce complications, and improve health outcomes for people living with serious illnesses.

At the same time, we recognize that good health depends on much more than food alone. Our Client Services team continues to expand its role as a trusted resource – connecting clients with transportation, housing, caregiver support, and other community resources. Our Registered Dietitians work closely with clients to provide individualized nutrition counseling, helping them manage complex medical conditions, navigate treatment-related side effects, and make informed food choices. By addressing both nutritional and social needs, we help remove barriers that stand in the way of healing and well-being.

Looking Ahead with Hope
This September, we will unveil a new 3-year strategic plan that charts an ambitious course for Open Arms’ future. Built on the lessons of our first 40 years, this plan will position us to expand our impact, strengthen our partnerships, and advance the Food Is Medicine movement across Minnesota. Alongside the plan, we will share an exciting announcement that marks the beginning of our next chapter—one that reflects our bold vision for the next 40 years.

Lastly, in October, along with our partners, we will host the first ever Minnesota Food is Medicine Summit, bringing together health care, non-profits, government, public health and more to share insights, strengthen collaboration and advance Food is Medicine innovation across Minnesota.

Thank you for believing in our mission and for standing beside us. Whether you volunteer in our kitchens, deliver meals, advocate for our mission, or invest through your financial support, you are an essential part of every Open Arms client story. Your generosity, time, support and love allows us to continue meeting today’s needs while building a stronger future for the thousands of Minnesotans who rely on Open Arms.

Please do not hesitate to reach out to me with anything you would like to share at [email protected], or by phone at 612-872-1152.

With gratitude,

Leah Hébert Welles
Chief Executive Officer
Open Arms of Minnesota

P.S. The future of Open Arms has always been built by people who believe that food is medicine. As we prepare for our next chapter, I invite you to consider how you can be part of it—through a meaningful gift, your time as a volunteer, or by sharing our mission with others. Together, we can ensure that no one facing serious illness is left without the nutrition and support they need.