News Summary
Forgotten Harvest, a food rescue nonprofit in Metro Detroit, has concluded its three-year Agency Capacity Grant Program, awarding $4.5 million to local food distribution partners. The initiative aims to enhance local food pantries’ infrastructure to better address food insecurity. The funding, made possible through a donation from MacKenzie Scott, has helped agencies modernize kitchens, improve cold storage, and enhance safety and dignity for clients in a region where one in seven individuals struggle with food insecurity.
Detroit, Michigan – Forgotten Harvest, a prominent food rescue nonprofit in Metro Detroit, has concluded its three-year Agency Capacity Grant Program by awarding a total of $4.5 million to local food distribution partners. The final round saw 33 grants awarded, ranging from $2,100 to $30,000, designed to strengthen the infrastructure of local food pantries and agencies involved in hunger relief.
This substantial initiative was made possible through a partial allocation of a landmark donation from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott, aimed at empowering grassroots organizations that face financial obstacles in acquiring essential equipment and resources. Over the course of the program, Forgotten Harvest distributed 139 total grants amounting to $4,524,223 across Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties.
The funding allowed local agencies to modernize their kitchens, secure cold storage capabilities, and improve the overall experience for clients by enhancing safety and dignity. This initiative has helped local agencies better meet the growing demands of food insecurity in the region.
Detroit is experiencing a significant food insecurity crisis, with recent statistics indicating that one in seven individuals is affected, translating to approximately 589,000 people. Of these, many are vulnerable children and seniors. Forgotten Harvest has been at the forefront of addressing this issue, currently serving 400 distribution partners and adapting to meet the ongoing high demand for food assistance.
The recent grant round supported various projects that include the acquisition of refrigerated delivery vehicles and improved food storage facilities, alongside the integration of new technology that aids food distribution. Notably, shelter improvements for volunteers and clients were also funded to shield them from harsh weather conditions while accessing food assistance.
Forgotten Harvest’s President and CEO articulated the long-term vision of building sustainable capacity for community organizations involved in hunger relief. This program not only enhances the immediate capabilities of these agencies but also aims for long-term sustainability to address food insecurity effectively.
As part of their initiatives to combat food insecurity, Forgotten Harvest has launched new food distribution sites targeting neighborhoods that demonstrate a high demand for food assistance but lack adequate access. The organization operates mobile markets that allow clients the chance to select their food items, thereby enhancing their dignity and agency in the food selection process.
In light of recent cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the need for food assistance has further escalated in the region. As a result, organizations like Forgotten Harvest are crucial in responding to the increasing challenges faced by individuals and families struggling with food insecurity. According to data from Feeding America, approximately 378,000 children in Michigan are currently experiencing food insecurity, which underscores the significant impact of such local initiatives.
Looking ahead, Forgotten Harvest has outlined plans for further expansion to increase accessibility to food assistance across Southeast Michigan. By enhancing the food distribution infrastructure and ensuring local agencies are equipped to meet the needs of their communities, Forgotten Harvest continues to play a pivotal role in the fight against hunger in the region.
In summary, the successful completion of the Agency Capacity Grant Program represents a significant investment in the community, highlighting the importance of collaboration and support in addressing food insecurity challenges faced by many individuals and families in Metro Detroit.
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Additional Resources
- Michigan Chronicle
- Detroit Free Press
- Fox 2 Detroit
- Daily Detroit
- WXYZ Detroit
- Wikipedia: Food Insecurity
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Nutrition
- Google Search: Food Waste and Food Insecurity
- Google Scholar: Food Pantries Michigan
- Google News: 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.
