KENTWOOD, Mich. — Recently, Feeding America West Michigan faced a challenge. The USDA paused several shipments of fresh food, impacting local food pantries that work hard to support their communities. This pause affects around 32 truckloads of food that were scheduled to arrive between April and July.
Ken Estelle, the president and CEO of Feeding America West Michigan, expressed concern about the loss. “A lot of that food was really good food. It was protein,” he said. The organization now needs to replace about 600,000 pounds of meat, cheese, and milk. They are exploring different options. “We’re checking with our suppliers and donors, but we may have to buy food to fill some gaps,” Estelle explained.
A recent USDA grant, which allowed the food bank to buy from Michigan farms, faced a similar pause. Fortunately, after discussions with officials, this grant has been reinstated through October. Estelle noted the importance of supporting local farms during Michigan’s growing season. "These farms depend on us as customers for their products," he added.
Local food pantries, like The Green Apple Pantry, are particularly reliant on USDA supplies. They serve nearly 500 families monthly. Nancy Cromley, the pantry’s executive director, emphasized the gravity of the situation. “It’s the foundation of everything we provide,” she stated, expressing worry about the uncertainty brought by the recent developments.
The food insecurity problem is notable across the U.S. According to the USDA, around 10.5% of U.S. households experienced food insecurity in 2021, and the demand for food assistance remains high, especially in uncertain economic times.
Despite these challenges, Feeding America West Michigan remains hopeful. They are committed to ensuring food availability for families in West Michigan. “In the big picture, we’re focused on making sure that food is accessible,” Estelle said. The organization hopes for a swift resolution to the shipment issues, allowing them to continue supporting their community effectively.
For more information or to support Feeding America West Michigan, you can visit their website here.
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