Copyright M Live Michigan
MUSKEGON, MI - With local families facing financial uncertainty due to SNAP benefit cuts, delayed government paychecks and an increased demand on area food pantries, a Muskegon business is stepping up to help out. Port City Credit Union, located at 460 W Laketon Ave, launched a new community food pantry Monday, Nov. 3, according to a press release. The pantry will be available 24/7 outside the front entrance of the building. “It really did come as a result of the halt of SNAP benefits,” said Ashton Person, chief executive officer. “We are a low-income designated credit union - 85% of our membership falls in that category.” “We’ve heard stories of food budgets being stretched a little too thin ... this was just a way we could quickly try to fill a little bit of that gap.” The staff of seven went on a grocery run and bought household essentials like canned goods, pasta, cereal and hygiene products. “We don’t want anybody to be hungry,” Person said. A couple credit union members took advantage of the pantry on Monday, while a couple of others donated to it. Person assured the pantry is for the entire community and said she hopes it will be used by people staying at the Muskegon Rescue Mission men’s shelter nearby. Donations from members, local businesses, and community partners are being welcomed to help sustain the pantry through the winter season. “I think this is something we could keep going as long as our community is willing to participate and give donations, and our staff is willing to help as well,” Person said. The pantry will move inside during the winter and will be open during the credit union’s business hours, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For details on how to donate, visit portcityfcu.com/food-pantry or call 231-725-3312. “Food insecurity affects more of our neighbors than people realize,” said Carrie Rodriguez, chief operating officer. “We’re here to help ease that strain and ensure no one in our community goes hungry this season.” Port City Credit Union, founded in 1944, is a member-owned, not-for-profit financial cooperative based in Muskegon.
