Twelve Baskets Food Pantry in Portage, Michigan, is facing unprecedented demand. Since the cutoff of SNAP benefits due to the government shutdown, the pantry has seen food assistance requests soar by nearly 50%. Executive Director Kathleen Fett shared that recently, they served 533 families in a single day, while the usual number is around 350 to 400 weekly.
This surge has raised concerns about safety as vehicles now line up on busy Portage Road, leading to potential hazards. Fett emphasized the urgency of this issue, stating, “We need to send cars away to prevent parking issues and traffic disruptions.”
To address safety, Twelve Baskets has consulted with Portage Public Safety for guidance, particularly for an upcoming grocery distribution. The pantry serves different communities at different times. The first two hours focus on Portage, Schoolcraft, Vicksburg, and Three Rivers; the final hour is for the rest of Kalamazoo County. Fett advises, “Don’t come early. It won’t change the amount of food you receive.”
New guidelines are in place to streamline operations. Drivers are asked to avoid lining up on Portage Road and to wait if they arrive and see a “LOT FULL” sign. Families can pick up groceries twice a month, but only one family per household address is permitted, and a maximum of two families can share a car for pickups. Additionally, vehicles must only turn right onto Portage Road.
For a smoother experience, Fett urges cooperation with these rules, highlighting that patience pays off. “You generally get the same thing, regardless of when you arrive,” she noted.
As food insecurity rises, the need for support continues. According to recent reports, over 42 million Americans relied on food pantries in 2022. The situation at Twelve Baskets echoes this trend, highlighting the urgent need for community resources.
For additional details, visit Twelve Baskets’ website here.
