Richfield Ambassador to Represent Community at Minneapolis Aquatennial

, alongside ambassadors throughout Minnesota, will represent Richfield at the Minneapolis Aquatennial this weekend.

About the experience she said, "I am so excited to represent the city in this state-wide celebration," she said happily. "I'll be spending the week with 40-plus girls my age, so I'm sure it'll be a very fun experience."

As part of her role in the Minneapolis celebration, she is also collecting canned food items for Second Harvest Food Bank. The state government shutdown has significantly impacted the organization since many governmnet funded food programs have shutdown and more people are out of work, according to an article on the nonprofit's website. 

Haile-Sallassie said she is excited at the prospect of making a difference for a local community staple like Second Harvest and those who rely on its services.

"I can't put a number on it, but I've collected a lot of food from my friends and family throughout the past week," she said. "I want to collect as much canned goods as possible—every little bit helps!"

Haile-Salassie will be collecting non-perishable food items until July 15. To help donate, drop all non-perishable items at the or .

*Haile-Salassie also added, "A huge thank you to [Richfield-Bloomington Credit Union for sponsoring my entire trip to aquatenial!"

Editor's Note: Halies Salassie wanted to add her thank you to RBCU after the article was published.