A New Chapter of Service in Austin

A New Chapter of Service in Austin

By Alba Muñoz Saiz Lt. Juan Hernandez and his wife, Omayra, are leading a new chapter of service in Austin—rooted in faith, community, and the belief that real change happens when people work together. When Juan Hernandez first crossed the Mexican border 24 years ago...
Building a Food System That Serves Everyone

Building a Food System That Serves Everyone

By Alba Muñoz Saiz and Ethan Watters How the Hometown Food Security Project is shaping Austin and Mower County’s vision as a true food destination On a warm summer evening in Austin, Minnesota, neighbors gathered around tables, not for a meal, but for something just...
A Fresh Perspective on Food Security

A Fresh Perspective on Food Security

By Alba Muñoz Saiz This internship program brought new energy and new ideas to the fight against hunger in Mower County Future doctors, pharmacists and other healthcare professionals are more regularly being taught to look beyond the exam room, to consider how...
The 2024 Hometown Food Security Impact Report

The 2024 Hometown Food Security Impact Report

The 2024 Hometown Food Security Impact Report offers an in-depth look at our collective work to address food insecurity across Mower County. It highlights the progress of our cross-sector coalition, the power of community engagement, and the innovative strategies...
Giving Back, Moving Forward

Giving Back, Moving Forward

Sasha Alexander, volunteer, and Linda LaVallie, Rachel’s Hope executive director.   By Alba Muñoz Saiz A spotlight on local volunteers tackling food insecurity and keeping Austin’s nonprofits running. Sasha stands behind the counter at Rachel’s Hope,...
The Cycle of Giving

The Cycle of Giving

By Ethan Watters Bob Rosel’s journey from need to service On Tuesday afternoons in Austin, Minnesota, Bob Rosel and his wife Madonna can be found at the Salvation Army’s food shelf, guiding visitors through rows of canned goods, produce and staples....