A Community of Pantries

Following the recent pause in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits and with the program facing new hurdles food pantries are experiencing extreme pressures to fill gaps. In November, United Way for Southeastern Michigan created a safe space for several partner pantries to come together to share ideas and brainstorm ways to meet the moment.

For this “Vital Services in Vital Spaces” meeting, United Way’s Community Investments team stepped up as a convener for our network of partners. This year, the team spearheaded investments totaling over $5.3 million for 89 local organizations, of which 63% are providing food resources.

“We’re never in the same room, but we all play a vital part in food security and access to resources,” said Angela Wolf, executive director at Redford Interfaith Relief. “To be in a space and talk about challenges as well as the amazing things each of us are doing, we can glean ideas, energy and direction.”

Attendees included Aid in Milan Inc., Hospitality House, Manchester Community Resource Center, Operation Refuge and Redford Interfaith Relief. Each of these small but mighty organizations is the primary service provider in their area.

When organizations exchange ideas, we create a foundation for care in our region. At the meeting, partners gained a renewed energy to tackle evolving challenges.

“Being in community allows the pressures to be shared,” said Carol Wotring, executive director of Manchester Community Resource Center. “Everything is still there that you’re dealing with, but you get ideas, so I can feel more excited after this meeting.”

SOLIDARITY AND SUPPORT

Many of the food pantries are powered by only one or two paid staff members and a community of dedicated volunteers. With small teams covering a city’s worth of ground, it’s easy to feel siloed.

“It touched my heart that people were so open to sharing— I value that,” said Carol. “It’s helpful to know that you’re not alone, that other people are in the same boat.”

The meeting was born out of the need for a stronger network of pantries in our region. Led by our Community Investments team, the meeting offered an opportunity to celebrate wins, brainstorm solutions and gather in solidarity.

“I love having the partners come together,” said Angela. “Just being in the same space allows for vulnerable moments as leaders that we don’t always get opportunities to have.”

Inspired to support your local pantries? Read more about how you can help on our Every Family Fed webpage.