An Evening of Community, Connection, and Impact

📍 Tinucci’s Restaurant | Newport, Minnesota | 📅 Wednesday, November 4, 2026 | 4:30 PM - 8 PM (4 Dinner Entry Time Slots)

Basic Needs is thrilled to host our annual fundraising celebration:
Pasta for a Purpose — an Italian buffet extravaganza filled with delicious food, exciting activities, and opportunities to give back!

🌟 Enjoy an Evening Featuring:

🍽️ A delicious Italian buffet
🎁 Silent auction with exciting items and experiences
💍 Thrift jewelry pop-up shop with unique finds
🎶 Lively company and community spirit

Four Dinner Seating Options:

4:30 - 6:15 PM
4:45 - 6:30 PM
6:15 - 7:45 PM
6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

Event Flyer (Download here)

Why Attend?
Providing free food to those in need isn't free — and we need your help! Every dollar raised through ticket sales, our silent auction, jewelry pop-up, and pick-a-ticket cash boards directly supports the Basic Needs Food Market, offering barrier-free access to fresh, nutritious food for those facing hardship.

🧡 About Basic Needs

Founded in 1996, Basic Needs is a nonprofit dedicated to supporting individuals and families in our community. In 2023, we launched the Basic Needs Food Market, providing free rescued food in a dignified, welcoming environment. Alongside our affordable thrift shop and social services referral network, we’re committed to building a more equitable, inclusive, and sustainable community.

Food Market

Free, choice-based Food Market serving families, seniors, veterans, and individuals across the East Metro.
Distributed more than 1 million pounds of food in 2025.
Provides fresh produce, meat, dairy, and pantry staples in a dignified shopping environment.

Food Rescue

Recovers surplus food from grocery stores, schools, and community partners.
Partners with all 23 schools in District 833.
Diverts over 500,000 pounds of food from landfills annually while increasing food access.

Community Gardens

1,000 lbs of fresh produce grown for Food Market shoppers.
Promotes healthy eating, sustainability, and community engagement.
Provides volunteer opportunities for individuals and groups.

Senior Food Drops

Delivers nutritious food directly to 150+ seniors facing transportation or mobility barriers.
Helps reduce hunger, improve health, and support independent living.
Connects older adults with additional community resources.

🙏 Thank You to Our Generous Sponsor!

⚪ PLATINUM SPONSORS

🟡 GOLD SPONSORS

⚪ SILVER SPONSOR

🤝 Special Thanks

To Tinucci’s and the Saint Paul Park - Newport Lions Club for their generous in-kind donations that help make this event possible.

2026 Pasta for a Purpose

Basic Needs Food Market Fundraiser