Unlock the Door to Free Groceries in Monroe County

December Food Distribution Schedule

In December, families have multiple opportunities to access free groceries. On December 4th, from 4-5 p.m., the Dundee United Methodist Church at 645 Franklin St., Dundee, is a distribution site. On December 5th, also from 4-5 p.m., at the London Township Hall located at 13613 Tuttlehill Road, Milan. On December 9th, between 10-11 a.m., at Redeemer Fellowship on 5303 Evergreen Drive. On December 10th, from 10 a.m. to noon, at Zion Lutheran Church on 8307 Memorial Highway, Ottawa Lake. On December 11th, from 10 a.m. to noon at Luna Pier Baptist Church on 4265 Luna Pier Road, Luna Pier, and from 9-11 a.m. at River Park Plaza for residents only. Finally, on December 28th, from 10-11 a.m., at the Lower Light Church Food Closet on 400 E. Elm St., Petersburg. These schedules ensure that families have convenient access to much-needed food during the holiday season.

Each quarter, thousands of area families rely on these distributions. It's a crucial support system that helps families make ends meet and provides them with the nourishment they need. The variety of distribution sites also caters to different locations across Monroe County, making it accessible to a wide range of families.

Food Items Distributed

The items distributed each month vary, but typically include dry goods such as canned fruits and vegetables, canned meats, pasta and beans. Frozen protein items and dairy products are also provided when available. In the last couple of years, a greater emphasis has been placed on fresh and healthier foods like dairy items and fresh produce. This shows the commitment of Monroe County to improving the nutritional well-being of its residents.

By offering a diverse range of food items, the Monroe County Opportunity Program ensures that families receive a balanced diet. This not only helps with immediate sustenance but also contributes to the long-term health of family members.

Eligibility Criteria

Monroe County households with an income at or below 200 percent of the Federal Poverty Level are eligible to participate. For a single person, the limit is $30,120 a year or $579 a week. For two people, it's $40,880 a year or $786 a week. Three people can earn up to $51,640 a year or $993 a week, four people up to $62,400 a year or $1,200 a week, and for each additional family member, add $10,760 a year or $207 a week. This ensures that those in need receive the support they deserve.

The clear and specific eligibility criteria make it easy for families to determine if they qualify. It's a straightforward process that aims to reach as many families as possible and provide them with the assistance they need.

What to Bring to the Site

Households only need to bring their identification to prove Monroe County residency. Families do not need to bring proof of income, but they will be required to sign a form stating their household falls under the guidelines. This simplifies the process and ensures that eligible families can quickly access the food they need.

The focus on residency verification helps ensure that the resources are directed to those who truly need them and are part of the Monroe County community.

Distribution Styles

The distribution style varies from site to site. Each partner distributes the food a bit differently, depending on the physical aspects of their site. Readers are welcome to contact each site if they would like more information about their format. This flexibility allows for a personalized approach to food distribution, ensuring that each site can operate efficiently and effectively.

The different distribution styles also accommodate the unique needs and capabilities of each site, making the process more accessible and convenient for both the organizers and the recipients.

Other Food Resources in Monroe County

In addition to the Monroe County Opportunity Program, there are several other organizations that offer free food in Monroe County. A Food Closet is open from 11 a.m. to noon on the third Saturday of each month at West Ida Immanuel Lutheran Church on 3879 Jackman Rd., Ida. The Rockwood Pantry is open periodically at Rockwood First Congregational Church. Free food and hygiene items are provided to individuals and families in need. To learn more, call 734-379-3711 or email rockwoodfcc125@gmail.com. A food pantry is open three days a week at Lambertville United Methodist, with hours from 10-11 a.m. on Tuesdays and 5-6 p.m. on Thursdays. The public is welcome, and participants are asked to visit only once a week. For more information, call the church office at 734-847-3944. The Salvation Army of Monroe County offers a food pantry, and for more information, contact Major Wayne or Major Tracy Ruston at 734-241-0440. The Gibraltar Food Pantry, a ministry of First Congregational United Church of Christ, is open from 5:30-7 p.m. on Tuesdays and from 11 a.m. to noon on Wednesdays at 29885 Bayview Drive. Clients can come once a month and receive a box of non-perishable items and personal care items. A Blessing Box on the property offers non-perishable foods to anyone in need 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For more information, visit gibraltarfoodpantry.webs.com. MCOP also offers the Lord’s Harvest Food Pantry, mobile food pantries, and other programs. To learn more, visit monroecountyop.org/food-programs.html.

This extensive network of food resources in Monroe County provides families with multiple options to access free food. It shows the community's collective effort to address food insecurity and support those in need.

How to Learn More

For more information, visit MCOP on Facebook or call 734-241-2775 or 866-261-9184. These channels make it easy for families to get the information they need and stay updated on the latest developments in food distribution and other programs.

Staying informed is crucial for families to take advantage of the available resources and ensure they receive the support they need. The various contact options provide multiple ways for families to reach out and get the help they deserve.