Despite the snowy conditions that marked Big Rapids’ first blizzard of the season, dozens of volunteers lined the town’s fairgrounds, loading neighbors’ cars with milk, juice, produce and other food at a Feeding America West Michigan Mobile Food Pantry. “I … Continue reading
mobile pantry
1 in 5 Oceana County residents may be facing hunger right now — here’s how one church is helping
Sharita is an Oceana County resident who can’t accept the thought of any of her neighbors going hungry. So, she started volunteering at the Feeding America West Michigan Mobile Pantries hosted by New Hope Community Church. She quickly found herself … Continue reading
How one grandma keeps food on the table without work or help from SNAP
On a blustery day in late October, a Feeding America West Michigan truck pulls up in front of Ridgeview Elementary in Sparta. Volunteers and school staff begin unloading an abundance of food – squash, sweet potatoes, beef, milk, pop tarts … Continue reading
Neighbors in need find food and hope at Manistee Friendship Society
The Manistee Friendship Society believes mental illness is “too tough a road to walk alone.” That’s why they offer classes and community events for any Manistee neighbor needing mental health support. The society also offers a traditional food pantry and, … Continue reading
“We could never buy fresh fruit” – U.P. neighbor who faced hunger gives back
Nearly 70 years ago when Annie was just 9, she would wake up early, walk into town – rain, snow or shine – and peel potatoes at local restaurants. “They would give me a meal and something to take home … Continue reading
COVID-19 Hunger Heroes Part 6: MI National Guard dedicates 2 ½ months to hunger-relief efforts during pandemic
From March 16 through June, Feeding America West Michigan has distributed an unprecedented amount of food – 8,956,560 pounds to be exact. That’s roughly 40 percent more food than we distributed during the same time frame in 2019. This food – equivalent to nearly 7.5 million meals – wouldn’t have made it to the hands of our neighbors facing hunger if it weren’t for the support of 17 dedicated Michigan National Guard members. Continue reading