Ruby’s Pantry to cease operations

A major resource for local residents challenged by food insecurity has abruptly ceased operations.
Pastor Rod Ankrom of Calvary Baptist Church announced the news in an April 1 press release.
“Ruby’s Pantry corporate office sent out notice yesterday that they are ceasing ministry operations effective April 1, 2026, to all pop-up monthly food pantries across Minnesota and Wisconsin,” the release reads. “Ruby’s Pantry has served the people in the Rhinelander area for over 12 years. For the past 8 1/2 years, Ruby’s Pantry has been a ministry of Calvary Baptist Church in Rhinelander.”
According to Ankrom, the closure of the ministry came as a surprise.
“The sudden closing of Ruby’s was a shock that came with no advance warning,” he said. “We are saddened by the loss of this ministry that helped so many families for over 12 years in our community. We thank our guests, our amazing volunteers and the leadership team at Ruby’s for their many hours of service.”

Here is the full announcement sent by Ruby’s Pantry corporate office:
Greetings,
Over the past several months, we have been thoughtfully realigning the work, structure, and focus of Ruby’s Pantry to ensure our mission remains at the center of everything we do. As part of this process, we have worked to better align community needs with our goal of operating in the most effective and seamless way possible.
As a result, we have decided to end the operations of Ruby’s Pantry effective immediately. We recognize that this is difficult news to receive and do not take this decision lightly.
God has blessed Ruby’s for over 20 years, and it has been an incredible journey. It all started from a vision to help others through a single blessing box. We are truly grateful for your contributions and dedication throughout your time with Ruby’s Pantry. Thank you for the important role you have played on this journey and for the impact you have made in service of our mission.