News Summary
Forgotten Harvest has wrapped up its three-year Agency Capacity Grant program, distributing a total of 33 grants to improve infrastructure for Metro Detroit food pantries. With funding ranging from $2,100 to $30,000, this initiative was supported by a significant donation from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott. The program focused on empowering local food agencies through essential upgrades, helping them better meet the rising demand for food assistance in the community.
Detroit, Michigan – Forgotten Harvest Concludes Funding Program for Local Food Pantries
Forgotten Harvest has completed its three-year Agency Capacity Grant program, awarding its final round of grants aimed at improving infrastructure for food pantries in Metro Detroit. A total of 33 grants were distributed, with amounts varying from $2,100 to $30,000. This initiative was made possible through a significant donation from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott, culminating in a total of $4,524,223 awarded across 139 grants over the program’s lifespan.
The funding is designed to empower local food agencies to modernize critical aspects of their operations, including kitchen upgrades, cold storage solutions, and enhanced infrastructure to better serve their communities. Forgotten Harvest aims to address important factors such as client dignity and safety while increasing the overall capacity of these agencies to meet the growing demands for food assistance.
Infrastructure Improvements
Grants provided by Forgotten Harvest have led to numerous vital infrastructure upgrades in local food pantries. Some of the funded projects include the acquisition of refrigerated delivery vehicles, expanded food storage facilities, and technology improvements designed to streamline client services. Structural enhancements have also been supported, such as roof repairs, pest control measures, and kitchen renovations that are essential for maintaining health and safety standards.
Looking ahead, Forgotten Harvest is increasing its capacity to distribute food by expanding grocery store-style and drive-thru food distributions across the Metro Detroit area. Recently, three new food distribution sites have been launched, with two more expected to open in the coming week. The organization anticipates a 15% increase in the number of households served compared to the previous year, reflecting the rising demand for assistance.
Addressing Food Insecurity
According to data from Feeding America, one in seven individuals in Michigan, which includes approximately 378,000 children, experiences food insecurity. The demand for food assistance has not waned since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic; in fact, it continues to escalate. In response, Forgotten Harvest collaborates with various partners, including churches and community organizations, to provide food to those in need.
Current food distribution events facilitate the provision of approximately 120,000 pounds of food daily to families throughout the region. In an effort to minimize transportation barriers and enhance food access, Forgotten Harvest is set to introduce new mobile markets in the area.
Future Goals and Leadership
As Forgotten Harvest continues its mission to combat food insecurity, new board members have been appointed to support its operations. Effective July 1, the newly appointed board members include Loretta V. Bush, Andrew Roy, and John Queen. Their leadership will be instrumental as Forgotten Harvest looks to expand its reach and better serve families grappling with food insecurity in Southeast Michigan.
Conclusion
Through its Agency Capacity Grant program, Forgotten Harvest has made crucial investments in local food pantries, equipping them to meet the rising demands of their communities. With a focus on building long-term capacity and improving the overall effectiveness of food distribution efforts, the organization plays a vital role in addressing food insecurity across the region.
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Additional Resources
- Detroit Free Press: Forgotten Harvest New Food Pantries
- Google Search: Forgotten Harvest Detroit
- WXYZ: Forgotten Harvest’s Food Pantries Helping Those in Need
- Wikipedia: Food Insecurity in the United States
- Click On Detroit: Forgotten Harvest Distributes Food in Detroit
- Google News: Forgotten Harvest
- Fox 2 Detroit: Forgotten Harvest Expands Mobile Markets
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hunger
- DBusiness: Forgotten Harvest Welcomes New Board Members
- Google Scholar: Forgotten Harvest
Author: STAFF HERE DETROITMI WRITER
DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
