Neighbors, Inc.

Neighbors Helping neighbors build stability to increase opportunity and well-being. 

Neighbors, Inc. is a community-led nonprofit that has served Dakota County since 1972 and has since expanded to serve residents across Washington and Ramsey County. With a mission of neighbors helping neighbors build stability and increase opportunity and well-being, we provide an affirming safety net and economic empowerment services to our low-income community members. 

With 36,000+ participant service interactions each year, Neighbors, Inc. levels the playing field via three core program areas: (1) Financial Empowerment, providing 1:1 career and financial counseling, career training navigation, financial and consumer education, access to financial products, asset and skill-building to support long-term stability, and support when applying for benefits such as SNAP; (2) Hunger Relief Programming, providing a choice model food market, food delivery, and community express site food distributions serving 6,000+ households in our service area; and (3) Community Supports, including free or low-cost clothing and household items provided by our Thrift store, a seasonal Holiday Gifts program for children and seniors in need, and person-centered referrals to community partners 

Within fiscal year 2024–2025, Neighbors distributed 1,279,142 pounds of food through our free Food Market, no-appointment, onsite food distribution, and nine Community Distribution Sites. Last year we were able to better meet the demands of our community by distributing 24% more food than the prior year. During this period, we also welcomed 1,346 new households (4,010 individuals) to our Hunger Relief programs, highlighting the rising need for essential support in our community. 

Beyond food access, Neighbors continues to expand our Financial Empowerment Center, offering personalized career pathway programs and coaching in high-demand industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, IT, and trucking. These services equip families to build long-term stability and resilience in today’s uncertain economy, ensuring that immediate relief is paired with opportunities for lasting change.