Kirtland Community College and the Food Bank Of Eastern Michigan recently joined forces in a powerful collaboration to address food insecurity in eastern Michigan. Their joint food distribution event on April 5th proved to be a resounding success, providing crucial food supplies to local families and individuals in need. The event underscored the vital role of community partnerships in tackling critical social issues and highlighted the impactful work of the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan in the region.
“It’s amazing when you have so many members from Kirtland and the community come together to put on an event for a good cause,” commented Derric Knight, Kirtland’s Director of Student Housing and Life. His statement encapsulates the spirit of unity and collective action that defined the event. The collaborative effort successfully served 219 households, ensuring food reached 579 individuals facing food insecurity in the area. The positive response from the recipients was overwhelming, with many expressing deep gratitude for the support. This initiative demonstrated the immediate and tangible impact of the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan‘s outreach in local communities.
The partnership between Kirtland Community College and the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan was born from a shared commitment to confronting social challenges prevalent in the region, particularly food insecurity. Both organizations recognized the urgent need to support vulnerable populations and worked diligently to create an accessible and inclusive food distribution system. This event was meticulously planned to ensure ease of access for community members, reflecting the dedication of both Kirtland and the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan to serve the community effectively.
Volunteers were the backbone of the event’s success, drawn from diverse groups including Kirtland faculty, staff, and students, local community members, and representatives from the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan. Their combined efforts in the months leading up to April 5th were instrumental in ensuring the smooth and efficient distribution of food. Importantly, the event’s reach extended beyond Crawford County, welcoming individuals and families from surrounding counties, broadening the positive impact of the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan‘s services.
Michelle Vyskocil, Kirtland’s Vice President of Student Affairs and Registrar, expressed immense pride in the collaborative achievement. “At Kirtland, we firmly believe in the power of community-driven initiatives, and this event serves as a testament to our unwavering commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of those around us,” she stated. Her words emphasize Kirtland’s dedication to community engagement and its understanding of the critical role institutions play in supporting the well-being of the wider population in partnership with organizations like the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan.
The food distributed at the event was generously provided by the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan and included a variety of nutritious options, from fresh produce to essential pantry staples. This ensured that recipients received a well-rounded selection of food items to support their dietary needs. Volunteers created a welcoming and supportive atmosphere, offering not just food supplies but also words of encouragement and empathy to each attendee. This holistic approach reinforced the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan‘s mission to not only alleviate hunger but also to offer dignity and support to those they serve.
Katie Bondie, Regional Outreach Coordinator for the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan, highlighted the enthusiasm and dedication of everyone involved. “When we got the call, we couldn’t wait to get this on the calendar! The event had some incredible volunteers and really emphasized our mission at the Food Bank,” Bondie said. She further noted the positive atmosphere and the tangible outcome of the event: “Everyone left with smiles on their faces and food to put in their pantries back home. This event was a total success!” Bondie’s remarks underscore the effectiveness of the partnership and the shared commitment to the mission of the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan.
The success of this food distribution event reaffirms Kirtland Community College’s dual commitment to providing excellent educational opportunities and enhancing the quality of life in the communities it serves. By partnering with the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan, Kirtland has extended its community support network and amplified its positive impact.
“You can’t have Kirtland Community College without the ‘community’,” Derric Knight emphasized. “I think today was an amazing opportunity to give back to the communities we serve, and it was amazing to see so people take time out of their day to come help.” Knight’s statement perfectly encapsulates the symbiotic relationship between Kirtland and its surrounding communities and the college’s proactive role in community development in collaboration with entities like the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan.
Building on the success of this event, Kirtland Community College is committed to ongoing community leadership and is actively exploring further collaborations to address social issues, with food insecurity remaining a key focus. Recognizing the significant positive impact of the food distribution, Kirtland is planning to make this an annual project, with potential expansion to two events per year. This forward-thinking approach demonstrates Kirtland’s long-term commitment to supporting the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan and fighting hunger in the region.
About the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan
The Food Bank of Eastern Michigan, headquartered in Flint, is a crucial hunger relief organization serving nearly 600 partner agencies across 22 counties in Michigan, including Crawford County. These partners include local non-profits and charities operating food pantries, mobile distribution programs, soup kitchens, and shelters, all working to combat food insecurity. The Food Bank of Eastern Michigan is dedicated to meeting the increasing needs of communities facing hunger. For more information about their services and how to support their mission, please visit www.fbem.org. By supporting the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan, individuals and organizations can contribute to a significant effort to alleviate hunger and build stronger, more food-secure communities throughout eastern Michigan.
