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Every day, over 500 individuals in Macomb County, located north of Detroit, depend on local food pantries for meals. The Macomb Food Program plays a crucial role in supporting these families.
Established in 1975, the program supports more than 55 pantries and collaborates with various hunger relief organizations in the county. It also aids over 1,000 homeless students by ensuring they have access to necessary resources. The program partners with the Community Food Bank of Macomb County to ensure food reaches those who need it most.
Bob Combs, a board member of the Macomb Food Program, emphasizes the importance of their collaboration with Meijer Simply Give. “The Simply Give donations and Double Match Days allow us to increase the impact of every dollar we raise,” he stated. “That means more food on pantry shelves and more meals for families.”
Simply Give enables the Macomb Food Program to assist the Community Food Bank in purchasing essential items as needed. Bob highlighted a recent situation where a shortage of canned chicken was resolved thanks to Meijer's support.
Bruce VanMaele, Store Director at Shelby Township Meijer, shared that Bob often visits their store to express gratitude. Their relationship began when Bob introduced himself and explained his program's mission. Bruce recalled how they developed a partnership/friendship and discussed ways to assist each other.
In addition to stocking pantries through Simply Give, the program helps children facing food insecurity by providing $15 Meijer gift cards annually to over 1,000 homeless children in Macomb County. These cards enable families to purchase food during school breaks when free or reduced-price meals are unavailable.
“We let the districts identify the students who need help, and we provide the cards to them directly,” Bob explained. “It’s a simple way to make sure kids have access to food.”
The demand for food assistance has surged by 70% since 2021, prompting the launch of a new grant initiative aimed at aiding local pantries.
Operating with an all-volunteer board of 11 members and no paid staff ensures that every donation significantly impacts their efforts.
“We appreciate all food donations, but financial support gives us the flexibility to buy what’s most needed,” Bob noted.
Meijer remains committed to supporting the Macomb Food Program's mission against hunger as they approach their 50th anniversary together.
For further information about the Macomb Food Program, visit https://macombfoodprogram.org/
