Generosity in action: Food drive brings in 38,000 meals’ worth of donations

Neighbors in need will have a better chance at a stable, nutritious food supply and better health thanks to the outpouring of support received during Michigan Medicine’s food drive.

In partnership with Food Gatherers, this most recent drive, which began before Labor Day, collected 38,466 meals’ worth of donated food and money, and 1,977 pounds of toiletries.

The number of people in our community experiencing food insecurity has risen to unprecedented levels during the pandemic. In an effort to do our part to help, Michigan Medicine has hosted four food drives over the past 18 months. In total, 280,000 meals and 5,260 pounds of toiletries have been collected so far.

“This extraordinary outpouring of generosity, from members of the U-M community and local residents, will have a direct impact on hunger, addressing food insecurity challenges faced by so many,” said Tony Denton, senior vice president and chief operating officer for U-M Health. “The link between food and health, especially for growing children, is undeniable. Thank you to everyone who has participated to make a meaningful difference during these unprecedented times.”

If you haven’t given yet but would like to, please consider an online donation here.

The food drive’s drop-off location at the North Campus Research Complex loading dock has been the collection point for food and toiletry drives since April 1, 2020. 

A big thanks to all volunteers who donated their time to ensure food donations were collected and transported safely to Food Gatherers.

Food Gatherers distributes food to a wide range of local organizations so they can share it with members of the community who seek their services. Food Gatherers also has volunteer opportunities and a drop-off location in northern Ann Arbor. Learn more here.