In West Michigan and the Upper Peninsula, 1 in 8 children is food insecure—meaning their families can’t always access or afford enough food for them to live healthy, active lives. In some of the 40 counties our food bank serves, … Continue reading
Newsletter
Kids Serve Neighbors at Ottawa County Mobile Food Pantry
Every two weeks, Engedi Church in Holland hosts Mobile Pantries for neighbors in need with lots of help from local families, many of whom have volunteered together for years. Kids like Marina and Ariana—sisters who volunteer each month—love being able … Continue reading
Mission Meats Helps the Food Bank Provide Snacks for Kids in Need
Nick McCann co-founded Mission Meats in 2015, wanting to make more than just delicious jerky—he wanted to make a difference. Since the beginning, he and his founding partner have prioritized helping nonprofits. That’s why they donate 10% of their profits … Continue reading
Children First Lakeshore Stops Kids From Facing Hunger on Weekends
Kids served by Children First Lakeshore don’t have to go home to empty cupboards on weekends. Instead, they open their lockers on Friday afternoons and find bags full of food to keep them nourished until Monday. Children First Lakeshore was … Continue reading
What Happens When the School Year Ends?
When summer comes around, kids in need are suddenly without free or reduced-price breakfasts and lunches—creating a larger financial burden for families. What’s more, most weekend and evening meal programs like Children First Lakeshore are only able to provide food … Continue reading
2022 Issue 2
In this issue of Full Plate Press, you’ll read how hunger affects children across our service area and learn what increases their risk of experiencing it. You’ll also meet amazing neighbors doing what they can to serve kids in need—including kids themselves—and learn how you can join in! In addition, you’ll learn how the food bank is aiming to serve more kids in future summers through our new meal site program—Gather 2 Grow. Continue reading