Lansing, MI – Thanksgiving is a time of celebration and reflection, but for many families in the Greater Lansing area, it’s also a reminder of the struggles they face to put food on the table. The Greater Lansing Food Bank is working tirelessly this holiday season to ensure that no one in the community has to go without.
Michelle Lantz, CEO of the Greater Lansing Food Bank, shared that some areas in the region experience food insecurity rates as high as 23 percent, meaning more than one in five residents is uncertain about where their next meal will come from. The food bank is committed to changing that, especially during the holidays when the need for assistance is greater.
“During the holidays, we see an increase of 15 to 20 percent in the number of households we serve,” Lantz said. “We typically help about 15,000 households a month, but this time of year, the demand grows.”
To meet the rising need, the food bank is relying on both community donations and its network of volunteers, who are working hard to ensure that families in need have access to food through Thanksgiving and beyond. In addition to traditional holiday staples, the food bank is mindful of the diverse cultural backgrounds in the community and makes a point of ensuring that their food offerings reflect those differences.
“People eat differently depending on their cultural traditions, especially around the holidays,” Lantz explained. “We work closely with these communities to make sure we’re meeting their specific needs.”
The Greater Lansing Food Bank serves more than seven counties, offering support not only during the holiday season but year-round. Whether someone is facing a short-term crisis or long-term food insecurity, the organization is committed to providing assistance to those who need it most.
“Whether it’s an emergency or a long-term need, we’re here to help,” Lantz said. “We want to make sure that everyone in our community has access to food, especially during the holiday season.”
Through its ongoing efforts, the Greater Lansing Food Bank continues to provide essential support to families in the region, helping to make the holidays a little brighter for those who need it most.
