Kalamazoo Salvation Army Faces Unprecedented Demand for Food Assistance

The Kalamazoo Salvation Army branch is facing a significant increase in families in need of resources, with their food pantry's shelves nearly empty. Administrators are struggling to keep up with the growing demand for food assistance in the community, as families are forced to choose between paying their bills and putting food on the table.

Providing a Lifeline for Struggling Families in Kalamazoo

Overwhelming Need for Food Assistance

The Kalamazoo Salvation Army's food pantry has long been a vital resource for low-income families, those facing homelessness, and those affected by financial hardships. However, the current situation has stretched the organization's resources to the limit. Major Ronnie Amick, the branch's administrator, reports that the need for food assistance in the community is at an all-time high."It's just showing the drastic need in our community at this time for families that need food assistance," Amick said. "We always have a need, but not to this extent."The economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, rising inflation, and other factors have left many families in Kalamazoo struggling to make ends meet. Amick explains that these families are often forced to choose between paying their bills and buying food for their families.

Depleted Pantry Shelves and Urgent Call for Donations

With the food pantry's shelves nearly empty, the Salvation Army is urgently calling on the Kalamazoo community to step up and provide much-needed donations. The organization is accepting all non-perishable items, including canned soups, vegetables, boxed meals, bottled waters, and snacks."We always have a need, but not to this extent," Amick said. "Families have to choose between keeping the lights on, or buying food for their family."Community members can drop off donations directly to the pantry at 1700 South Burdick Street, or visit the Salvation Army's website to learn more about making cash donations.

Ensuring Continued Support for Struggling Families

The Kalamazoo Salvation Army is determined to continue providing vital resources to the families in need within their community. Amick and his team are working tirelessly to keep the pantry stocked and ensure that no one goes hungry."We want to be able to continue to provide resources for those families," Amick said.With the community's support, the Salvation Army hopes to meet the growing demand for food assistance and ensure that struggling families in Kalamazoo have access to the nourishment they need to thrive.