Harbor Transit Offers Free Rides to Food Pantries
In Ottawa County, MI, Harbor Transit is rolling out a new program to help those in need. They are now offering free rides to food pantries in their service area until December 31. This is a big help for those facing food insecurity, especially during the holiday season.
Community members can easily request rides through the Lakeshore Go mobile app or by calling Harbor Transit directly. No special requirements are needed aside from needing transportation to a food pantry.
Scott Borg, the executive director, highlighted the importance of this initiative: “The holidays can be tough for many. Our hope is that free rides will ease some of that burden.”
This service follows their recent “Cans-n-Coats” drive, where they collected food and winter wear for local pantries. It’s part of a broader effort to combat food insecurity, which has seen a significant rise recently. According to a 2022 report by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, over 10% of households in the U.S. faced food insecurity, a number that has worsened in the wake of inflation and economic challenges.
Harbor Transit has been a steady source of public transport since 1975, serving the Grand Haven area and surrounding communities. They cover a 55-square-mile area, ensuring that local residents have access to safe and reliable travel. This latest initiative aims to strengthen community support systems.
Borg expressed gratitude for the community’s ongoing efforts and emphasized the goal of working alongside local partners to ensure everyone has access to necessary resources.
Food Pantry Hours
If you’re planning to use the free rides, here are the hours for local food pantries:
Monday
- All Shores Community Church: 9 a.m. – Noon
- Ferrysburg Community Church: 9:30 a.m. – Noon
Tuesday
- St Patrick’s Catholic Church: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
- 1st Reformed Church: 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Thursday
- St. Mary’s Catholic Church: 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Friday
- Spring Lake Presbyterian Church: 10 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
For more details, you can call Harbor Transit at (616) 842-3200 or visit harbortransit.org.
This initiative is a vital example of how transportation services can play a key role in supporting community well-being during challenging times.
