Kirtland Community College & Food Bank of Eastern Michigan Team Up for Another Successful Food Distribution Event
Kirtland Community College’s recent collaboration with the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan continues to make a significant impact, serving as a vital resource for individuals and families facing food insecurity. The second food distribution event of the academic year, held on April 4, witnessed an overwhelming turnout, successfully providing essential food supplies to 177 households.
“It was overall a very successful event,” said Alex Murphey, Kirtland Organizer for the Food Distribution Event. “We’re so grateful we were able to provide close to 200 families with food during the difficult weather northern Michigan has been hit with recently!”
Created to recognize and address social issues prevalent in the region, Kirtland and the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan remain dedicated to combating food insecurity through collaborative initiatives. With a shared mission of making a difference in people’s lives, both organizations worked tirelessly to ensure the event was seamless, accessible, and inclusive for all attendees.
Volunteers played a critical role in the success of the event, with Kirtland faculty, staff, and students joining forces with community members, local food banks, and representatives from the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan. Months of planning and coordination resulted in an efficient distribution process, providing assistance not only to residents of Crawford County but also to those in surrounding areas in need of support.
The distribution event featured a diverse selection of food items, including fresh produce and pantry staples, all generously supplied by the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan. Attendees were welcomed with warmth and compassion, with volunteers ensuring that each individual and household received not only the necessary provisions but also a sense of community support.
“Ensuring access to essential resources is more important than ever, especially with the extreme weather Northern Michigan has faced,” said Kirtland President Dr. Gary Roberts. “These food distribution events provide an invaluable service to our communities, reinforcing Kirtland’s commitment to supporting our communities not only in times of need but year-round.”
The success of this initiative underscores Kirtland’s unwavering commitment to both education and community service. By leveraging strategic partnerships and fostering impactful programs, Kirtland continues to play a crucial role in addressing pressing social issues, demonstrating that its mission extends beyond academics to enrich the well-being of the communities it serves.
With two successful food distribution events completed this year, Kirtland is further motivated to sustain and expand its outreach efforts. The overwhelming response and positive impact of these initiatives have solidified the college’s resolve to continue hosting similar events, with the continuation of annual food distribution projects.
“We hope to continue reaching more families and give back to the communities that support us,” said Murphey.
As Kirtland Community College remains steadfast in its efforts to drive meaningful change, the institution will continue to explore innovative avenues for collaboration and community engagement. Through ongoing dedication and a shared vision for a stronger, more supportive community, Kirtland and its partners are determined to make a lasting difference in the fight against food insecurity.
About the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan
The Food Bank of Eastern Michigan, based in Flint, serves a network of nearly 600 hunger relief partners throughout 22 counties in Michigan, including Crawford. Our partners are made up of local non-profits and charitable organizations who run brick-and-mortar pantries, host mobile distributions, run soup kitchens and even shelters to address food insecurity across the region. The Food Bank is committed to fighting hunger and works to meet the rising need in our communities. For more information, please visit www.fbem.org.
