Local Backpack Program Receives $3250

Farm Bureau Agents of Michigan have banded together to make an impact against hunger in Michigan. Community Hope – Back Packs for Kids was a recipient of a grant to help with the cost of making sure our kids in the area are fed over the weekend. “My goal is to just get food out there for kids. I taught school for a long time, and I saw kids, and I saw kids that were hungry. It is hard for me to think that there are kids that don’t have regular food available, and that is what got me started and keeps me going!" said Donna Maatman Pack Day Director.

Community Hopes mission is to support the people of Missaukee County by providing food and emergency relief as well as by training mentors for children, youth and adults who show the potential and desire to become self-sustaining and fruitful people in the community. Community Hope accomplishes its mission by communicating needs with its partnering business, church, and other non-profit organizations, by training and leading volunteers using time-tested mentoring models, and by partnering with multiple organizations to provide food to families in Missaukee County through area food pantries and Back Packs for Kids.

Hailey LaTulip, Sales Account Manager at Emington Schultz Agency, Farm Bureau Insurance delivered the check on October 23 to the Community Hope group in Lake City, Michigan. “I enjoy being a part of my community and helping pack the food bags for kids to take home for the weekend. It gives me a sense of satisfaction to know I am helping with the childhood hunger epidemic.”

"The Agent Charitable Fund believes in unleashing the power of Farm Bureau agents, clients, and partners to end hunger in Michigan through education, financial support, and community engagement - as is our mission. When approached with the opportunity, and presented with the facts, it was overwhelming the number of kids who are impacted by this valuable program.” Said Melissa Schultz Co-Owner of Emington Schultz Agency. “I cannot say thank you enough to the local programs in Lake City, McBain, & Cadillac for working as hard a tireless as they do to make sure the youth in our area have breakfast,
lunch dinner and snacks for the weekend."

Packing occurs every other Monday at the Lake City Christian Reformed Church. For a full list of products and items that can be donated please visit https://www.communityhopemc.org/backpacksupplylist

Donations are always accepted and can include: Granola Bars, Single serve cereal, Instant oatmeal packets, Soup, Mac & Cheese cups, Ramen noodles, Canned Meat/Pasta, Single serve applesauce, Fruit snacks, Single serve cracker packets, Popcorn (for microwave), tuna fish, and Flavored potato/rice pouches.
Community Hope would not be possible without the many generous donations we receive from our community, if you care to donate financially, please send a check to Community Hope, PO Box 265, Lake City MI 49651.

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