Twelve Baskets Food Pantry Launches New Community Store: A Beacon of Hope in Portage
KALAMAZOO, Mich. — In a heartfelt celebration of community spirit and resilience, Twelve Baskets Food Pantry has unveiled its newly renovated Community Store in Portage. This grand opening, held on Saturday, comes at a crucial time when food insecurity continues to rise in the area, making the store an essential resource for local families.
A Newly Renovated Space for Community Needs
Nestled within a welcoming environment, the Community Store offers an impressive range of new and gently used essentials at prices that feel almost too good to be true. With items priced up to 75% off retail, shoppers can find everything from clothing to kitchen appliances at bargain prices, some items starting at just $1.
Supporting a Noble Cause: Every Purchase Counts
What sets the Twelve Baskets Community Store apart is that all proceeds from sales directly support the food bank’s tireless battle against hunger. According to organizer Robin Tullock, a board member of Twelve Baskets, the community’s involvement has been integral to the store’s success:
"Our community is great. We depend on our community to keep our doors open. Just look at the support we have here today! Many of these people come every year just to stand by us."
This collective effort demonstrates the power of community in making a tangible difference.
The Journey to Opening Day
The renovation process, which took approximately nine months, was a labor of love aimed at transforming the space into a functional and inviting store. Each corner exudes warmth and accessibility, reflecting the mission of Twelve Baskets to serve those in need.
Feeding Families in Need
Twelve Baskets Food Pantry isn’t just about shopping; it’s also about providing nourishment and support to families in the area. Currently, they distribute a grocery cart filled with essentials twice a month, assisting around 350 families at their weekly distributions. This multifaceted approach to addressing food insecurity highlights the organization’s commitment to holistic community support.
Visit the Community Store
The Community Store opens its doors on the first and third Fridays and the second and fourth Saturdays of each month. For more information about locations, hours, and how you can help, visit Twelve Baskets’ official website.
Be a Part of the Solution
As we navigate the challenges of food insecurity, initiatives like the Twelve Baskets Community Store remind us that support comes in many forms. Whether through donations, volunteering, or simply shopping wisely, we can all contribute to combating hunger in our communities.
Join the movement, support local families, and experience the joy of making a difference—one purchase at a time.
