Simplified: Lisa Coder was scrolling social media last fall when she saw someone who'd turned a "Little Free Library" into a food pantry and thought it was a good idea. Nearly a year later, she's running a new nonprofit, Feed Sioux Falls, and helping connect those who have a little extra with those who need a little extra.

Why it matters

  • Coder, who also runs a veterinary clinic near 37th Street and Spring Avenue, initially started setting out some cans of food outside her business last fall when people saw cuts to federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) funds.
  • Feed Sioux Falls is one of several nonprofits addressing food insecurity in the city, which impacts an estimated 1 in 10 people in Minnehaha County, according to data from Feeding America.
  • Coder has connected with mutual aid groups in the community and began receiving donations of not only food but also household items, clothes, diapers and more – including a fridge to keep items cold. Everything gets put out with the message of "Take what you need. Leave what you can."
"Mutual aid is kind of that philosophy of, 'Hey, everybody's got something they can give, and everybody's got something they need," Coder said. "Why don't we meet where other people are, and we can help each other and our community is stronger for it."

Tell me more about Feed Sioux Falls

In the last year, the organization has obtained official nonprofit status, and begun establishing partnerships with Fair Market and Forever Funding to support the work and source food items.

A lot of it comes down to volunteer support and people knowing to drop off their extra food and other items, Coder said.

  • She's also helped organize outreach efforts to give hygiene supplies to unhoused people, as well as events to make a bunch of freezer meals that folks can take from the Feed Sioux Falls fridge.

But, for the most part, what's made Feed Sioux Falls a go-to in the community is that it's self serve and open 24/7.

"We’re here to be the bridge between people who have a little extra and people who need a little extra," Coder said.

How can I help?

Drop off the things you have a little extra of behind the vet clinic at 2809 S. Spring Ave.

  • You can also just show up and volunteer to help organize the shelves, clean out the fridges, or look around and do what needs to be done.

You can also donate online via the Feed Sioux Falls website, also a great resource to find any upcoming events or volunteer opportunities.