JACKSON, Mich —
MICHIGAN — A local food pantry coordinator says demand has increased, as a recent analysis finds a significant share of Michigan residents are struggling to cover basic expenses.
- Nearly 40% of Michigan residents struggle to afford basic needs, per a University of Michigan analysis.
- The Rives Church Food Pantry has seen a rise in demand across all demographics.
- First United Methodist Church gave out over 1,500 free backpacks at its annual "Back-to-School Blast."
Rising need at the food pantry
Joan Nelson, coordinator at the Rives Church Food Pantry, said she has seen an uptick in the number of people seeking assistance.
"We see people come in that really have immediate needs, some of them. Emergency needs, some of them. But we also have some that come monthly," Nelson said.
Nelson said the demographic of those in need ranges from seniors to young parents with children.
Analysis points to widespread financial strain
A recent analysis by Poverty Solutions at the University of Michigan found that nearly 40% of people in Michigan struggle to afford basic needs, including food, housing, utilities, and school supplies.
Back-to-School Blast draws families ahead of new school year
First United Methodist Church recently hosted its annual "Back-to-School Blast" event, offering free backpacks filled with school supplies to students through high school.
"This is the biggest project that we do all year is this 'Back-to-School Blast.' We're handing out over fifteen hundred backpacks to any student up through high school," said Penny Rund, who organized the event.
Rund said the need in the community is significant.
'"It's just, the need seems deep here, very deep," Rund said.
Rund said families responded positively to the event.
"Kids are grateful. Their parents are grateful for what they get, and they're excited," she said.
Nelson said donations have made it possible to continue serving residents.
"We're blessed with donations that have helped us be able to serve these people in our community that have needs," Nelson said.
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