Together with our partners, Gleaners is doing everything we can to serve those affected by the current state of emergency–including our most vulnerable neighbors. Our team is working around the clock to provide 70+ drive-up mobile food distributions, packs and delivers emergency food boxes, and continues to provide food through our School Food Mobiles and to our network of partner agencies.
Through this work, we are reaching thousands of additional households, including children facing months without school meals, families who have lost income, seniors in isolation, and vulnerable populations who are at risk of going hungry every day. And you can help! Here are a few ways to help feed people and nourish your community:
Donate to Help Us Reach Families in Need
Help us reach thousands of school-age kids facing months without school meals. Provide
The CARES Act has raised maximum charitable deductions for individuals and businesses for 2020.
Individuals who take the standard deduction are now also eligible for a charitable deduction of up to $300 in cash gifts.
Individuals who itemize on their taxes are now limited to 100% of their gross income (previously 60%); C corporations are now limited to 25 percent (previously 10%).
Please consult your tax advisor to determine if your gift is tax deductible under the new rules.
Combined Federal Campaign (CFC): Are you a federal employee? CFC is the workplace giving program of the federal government. The CFC online pledge portal and the CFC mobile giving app has been re-opened for a CFC Special Solicitation period through June 30. This allows federal employees and retirees to make supplemental one-time or recurring donations via credit/debit card or bank draft.
Create a Virtual Food Drive
Community members and organizations are encouraged to start Virtual Food Drives. These online drives are an easy and safe way to help ensure Gleaners can purchase and deliver our most needed items. Please note: In adherence to social distancing recommendations from the CDC, Gleaners does not recommend hosting physical food drive at this time.
Start a Facebook Fundraiser
Ask your friends and family to help feed your hungry neighbors by starting a Facebook Fundraiser. Tell them why you support Gleaners’ emergency response efforts and inspire others to give!
Learn About Hunger
Before the current realities of the COVID-19 pandemic, one in five families in Michigan struggled with hunger. We anticipate this number will increase, as many people continue to be greatly affected by the state of emergency. Hunger can often be hidden. Learn more about food insecurity in your community through our partner Feeding America.
Interested in hearing how food banks are responding to the current state of emergency? Check out the Food First Podcast, featuring Dr. Phil Night of the Food Bank Council of Michigan and Gerry Brisson, Gleaners’ President and CEO.
Welcoming Back, Volunteers
After suspending volunteer shifts during the ‘Stay Home, Stay Safe’ executive order, Gleaners is in search of volunteers! Join us in helping feed our community in southeast Michigan. Upcoming opportunities are open at:
My Neighborhood Mobile Grocery
Livingston Distribution Center
Thank You!
Gleaners is extremely grateful for the outpouring of support we have received in the past few weeks. “So many of you have shown up for our team and our hungry neighbors. By making donations, sending words of encouragement and sharing our mission to fight hunger—you are directly contributing to Gleaners’ work in the community. Even if you cannot join us physically, you are certainly with us in spirit. Thank you!”
~Stacy Averill, Senior Director of Community Giving & Public Relations