Our ambitious goal to raise $1.5 million through our Bridge the Gap campaign was set with three specific objectives in mind. Here’s a deeper dive into the plans for the funds raised through Bridge the Gap.
Fresh, locally sourced food for our neighbors
Top of mind in Bridge the Gap’s goal is food for our neighbors. If we hit our fundraising goal, more than $1 million will be allocated to purchasing fresh, locally sourced food for our neighbors in West Michigan and the Upper Peninsula. More funds are needed to buy food because of the end of LFPA funding on Sept. 30, the loss of USDA shipments earlier this year, and continued uncertainty in legislation that could affect the charitable food industry. In addition, we anticipate the need for food assistance will keep growing in 2026 and beyond. Financial gifts will help us make up for lost federal funds and prepare for the increased demand we expect in the future.
“Ultimately, it means our ability to continue to supply the food that our neighbors need through the next year,” said Ken Estelle, Feeding America West Michigan CEO, at the town hall kicking off Bridge the Gap. “This is food that we can get at a large volume, that we’re buying every day.”
Expanded capacity for agency partners
Roughly $300,000 will be used to help some of our agency partners increase their capacity. With an increased capacity, those agency partners can continue to hold and store more food, to then provide for neighbors in their community.
“We know that even if we had all of the food that we could get, some of our partner agencies simply don’t have the capacity to do more,” Ken said. “They’re already strained to meet the need that’s there. We’re looking for opportunities to expand capacity. That’ll be coming in 2026. We’ll be looking at grant-based programs where agencies can apply and look for what we can do together to expand capacity.”
Keeping things rolling with operational costs
Finally, up to $150,000 will be used for operational support.
“We know that we need to continue to be able to bring food to the places where it is needed,” Ken said. “A small portion will help cover our ability to not just get the food, but to get it to the places where it’s needed most.”
Operational costs may include things like fuel and truck maintenance, refrigeration costs, and warehouse staff. Every dollar you donate plays a crucial role in the ongoing fight against hunger in our communities — whether that’s helping agencies partners hold more resources, helping provide nutritious food, or helping the food get where it’s most needed. We deeply appreciate everyone’s support to this point and hope you’ll continue to stand with us as we work to bridge the gap.
To learn more about our Bridge the Gap campaign, please visit our dedicated webpage for more information.