December’s Double Your Donation Day on FOX 2 was a heartwarming event, capping an incredible year of giving. With the support of donors, partners, and friends, the day showcased what’s possible when we come together to help end hunger in Southeast Michigan.
Highlights from the Day
Kroger Kicks Off The Day
The day began with FOX 2’s Amy Andrews interviewing Cam Barrett, Corporate Affairs Manager at Kroger Co. Michigan. Cam shared the importance of Kroger’s partnership with Gleaners and delivered a surprise announcement: an additional $3,000 pledge from Kroger! After the match, that’s 36,000 meals for the community—an incredible way to kick off the day of giving.
An Inspiring Message from Gerry Brisson
Gleaners’ President and CEO, Gerry Brisson, joined FOX 2 live to share how donations make a difference in the lives of our neighbors. Gerry highlighted the hardworking families Gleaners serves who need just a little extra help to get through the month—especially during the holiday season when budgets are stretched thin.
Cooking with Gleaners’ Nutrition Education
In the Gleaners test kitchen, Julia Bartlett, Program Coordinator for Nutrition Education, demonstrated a healthy and budget-friendly recipe for Chicken with Apples and Raisins. Julia’s cooking demo brought the Cooking Matters curriculum to life, showing viewers how simple and delicious nutritious meals can be.
Partner Highlights: Olga’s Kitchen and Detroit Mercy
Morgan Stotz, Director of Training for Olga’s Kitchen, joined us to share about the restaurant’s Giving Tuesday efforts to support Gleaners. On December 6, Olga’s donated an impressive 95 cases of fresh food to Gleaners. Morgan expressed pride in partnering with Gleaners, calling it an honor to team up to feed the community.
We were also joined by Chelsea Manning, Program Manager for the Titan Equity Nourish Network (TENN) at the University of Detroit Mercy, and Kyndal Wofford, a TENN intern and Detroit Mercy student. Kyndal shared how TENN interns pick up, re-pack, and deliver food directly to doorsteps—a critical effort to address hunger in the community.
Companies and Schools Making an Impact
Gleaners Board Member and Vice President of Penske Automotive Group, Jose Santrich, spoke about the many ways companies can support Gleaners, including volunteering and hosting food and fund drives.
We also celebrated the incredible efforts of American Montessori Academy, highlighted by Natalie Vangelov, a school representative. Natalie shared how the school collected over 3,000 pounds of food and raised more than $2,000—a wonderful example of how communities can rally together to make a difference.
Thank You!
To everyone who contributed to this year’s December Double Your Donation Day: thank you. Whether you volunteered or donated, your generosity is helping make a real impact this holiday season and beyond.