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Year-round, the Meijer Simply Give hunger relief program supports over 500 local food pantries. The program remains committed to aiding communities during unexpected disasters and seasonal giving, partnering with organizations making daily differences.
This summer, after tornadoes struck Cleveland-area communities, the Olivet Institutional Baptist Church organized an emergency food distribution supporting more than 80 families. The Meijer Simply Give program enabled them to purchase ready-to-eat items like bread, fruit, tuna pouches, chicken, crackers, trail mix, water, and juice for families without power.
“This partnership with Meijer allowed us to respond immediately,” said Stephen Williams of the Olivet Housing and Community Development Corp., a nonprofit arm of the church. “The support we received from Meijer meant we could buy the essentials right away.”
Olivet has also increased its holiday support for Cleveland's Fairfax community. Later this month, their pantry plans to provide Thanksgiving meals to over 150 families.
“This year has been challenging for many,” said Williams. “We want families to enjoy a holiday meal without stress.”
Olivet’s pantry serves Fairfax and nearby areas monthly with boxes providing at least three days' worth of meals. Through a partnership with the Greater Cleveland Food Bank, they also offer frozen meat, dairy products, toiletries, and fresh produce from April to November.
“Through this partnership,” Williams explained, “we’re able to provide items like peanut butter and pasta while staying within budget.” He added that the Meijer Simply Give program has been invaluable in meeting growing needs.
Olivet's efforts reflect its mission of community service led by Pastor Dr. Jawanza Karriem Colvin. “Our church has served Fairfax for 93 years,” Colvin said. “Even with new grocery stores in the area, many residents still struggle.”
In the past year, Olivet provided food and supplies to over 1,000 families or about 2,500 people. “Seeing gratitude on people’s faces reminds us how much these efforts mean,” Williams shared. Contributions to the Meijer Simply Give program directly help those in need.
