Nonprofits Unite for Food Drive to Combat Growing Hunger in Marquette County

In a collaborative effort to address food insecurity, several nonprofits came together for a food drive at Walmart in Marquette Township, Michigan, on November 1, 2024. This initiative sets the stage for the upcoming TV6 Canathon, a long-standing community event aimed at collecting food and funds for those in need.

Key Takeaways

Event Date: November 1, 2024
Location: Walmart, Marquette Township, Michigan
Participating Organizations: United Way of Marquette County, Salvation Army, St. Vincent de Paul, and others
TV6 Canathon Duration: November 1 – November 30, 2024
Historical Impact: Nearly 5 million pounds of food raised since 1982

The Growing Need for Support

The food drive was organized by the United Way of Marquette County along with various community organizations. The need for assistance has become increasingly urgent, as recent reports indicate that 42% of households in Marquette County are struggling financially, up from 38% the previous year. This alarming trend highlights the importance of community support and collaboration.

Walmart’s Contribution

Walmart played a crucial role in this initiative. Front End Coach Rachel Kendzierski emphasized the store’s commitment to supporting local organizations. Each participating organization has specific needs, and Walmart staff are actively involved in purchasing necessary items to aid these groups.

Budget for Purchases: $200-$250 per organization
Focus Areas: Essential food items based on the needs of local nonprofits

The TV6 Canathon

The TV6 Canathon, which runs from November 1 to November 30, invites community members to donate both food and monetary contributions. This year, the goal is to reach the milestone of five million pounds of food raised since the event’s inception in 1982.

Tony Stagliano, the Canathon Director, expressed optimism about achieving this goal through a combination of online donations and contributions from local businesses, schools, and community members.

How to Get Involved

Community members are encouraged to participate in the Canathon by:

Donating Non-Perishable Food Items: Drop off at designated locations.
Making Monetary Donations: Online contributions are accepted.
Volunteering: Help organize and distribute food to those in need.

Conclusion

The collaboration among nonprofits and community members during this food drive exemplifies the spirit of giving and support in Marquette County. As the TV6 Canathon approaches, the community’s involvement will be crucial in combating hunger and providing assistance to those facing financial hardships. Every contribution, no matter how small, can make a significant difference in the lives of many.