What you need.
When you need it.

We uplift those who experience hardship by providing barrier-free access to basic needs.

Who We Are

Basic Needs uplifts those who have encountered hardship by providing barrier-free access to basic needs via our nutritious and fresh food market, affordable and high-quality thrift shop, and a borderless metro area social services referral network to build a stronger community focused on equity, inclusion, and sustainability.

Our Programs

Basic Needs, your source for emergency food assistance and family support

Your community help is here because finding emergency food assistance and basic needs as a low-income family can be a constant struggle. We all need a little help sometimes. Perhaps you’re underemployed. Maybe an illness has you worrying about making ends meet. Or you’re a senior needing a little extra help. The last few years have been increasingly challenging for many to afford essentials, and as a result, you must choose between food or utilities, clothing or medicine, household needs, and rent. These decisions can severely affect your physical and mental health and overall quality of life.

Experience Basic Needs, your lifeline in times of adversity. We’re ready to assist you with barrier-free access to your essentials, whether you take advantage of our nutritious food at Basic Needs Food Market or our high-quality thrift store for clothing, furniture, and household items, a voucher system, and a supportive social services network that connects you and your family with support. We're providing resources and building a community focused on equity, inclusion, and sustainability.

With Basic Needs, you get what you need when you need it.

Upcoming events

  • Fall PIT Stop

    October 9, 2025 | 9 AM - 1 PM | Cottage Grove Armory

    Join us to lend a helping hand to those in a tough spot, especially folks without a place to call home. It's a team effort where local non-profits team up to offer meals, toiletries, connections to county services, school supplies, and a bunch more to support the homeless members of our community. Click here for more info!

  • Pasta for a Purpose

    November 5, 2025 |4:30 PM - 7:30 PM | Tinucci’s

    Come enjoy Tinucci’s delicious all you can eat Italian Buffet while supporting the Basic Needs Food Market! Food, silent auction, Thrift Shop Jewelry, and chances to win cash with pick-a-ticket cash boards! All money raised supports the Basic Needs Food Market! Click here for tickets!

YOU can make a
difference!

What Our Clients Are Saying

“I was introduced to Stone Soup (now Basic Needs) many years ago when I was having difficult financial trouble, and my church referred me to apply for a voucher...I want to say thank you for helping me during a much difficult time in my life and being so compassionate, and showing me and my daughter so much love. …but honestly, it gives me much joy being there. I hope more people can donate to this beautiful organization...I know they appreciate it!!! Your store makes my heart smile. As well as the beautiful, kind volunteers and employees! I sincerely appreciate all of you. God bless!"

— Christine M.

"The Basic Needs free pantries and food rescue have been so helpful when I was in and out of work for medical reasons and funds were tight. I was able to get food for my pets, grandpa, and my husband and I. I also believe in sharing so I added food to the pantry close to home when I had the extra to share."

— Cayla Y.