In Antrim County, Michigan, the Mancelona Food Pantry has issued an urgent appeal for volunteers to assist in meeting the growing demand for food assistance. The pantry currently supports approximately 700 families and is seeking additional help to expand its operating hours. Operating from Tuesday to Thursday, the pantry aims to introduce Saturday openings due to increasing community needs. This expansion would significantly enhance the pantry's capacity to serve more individuals who rely on it for essential food supplies.

The Mancelona Food Pantry plays a crucial role in the local community by providing vital food resources to those in need. Brandy and Mark Craft, who are involved with the pantry, highlighted the critical importance of their work. They noted that the volume of food distributed daily is substantial, with people often waiting outside even before the doors open. The Crafts emphasized the significant impact of this service, stating that failing to meet the community’s food needs would be a disservice to the area. They described how they were surprised by the extent of the food distribution and the number of people relying on the pantry for support.

The pantry is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays, but the demand has prompted discussions about extending services to Saturdays. Volunteers are essential for managing operations, unloading trucks, and assisting recipients. For those unable to commit time as volunteers, the pantry also welcomes donations of food or money to help sustain its efforts. The Crafts encourage anyone interested in contributing to reach out to the pantry directly.

The Mancelona Food Pantry remains committed to ensuring that no one in the community goes without necessary food assistance. By expanding volunteer efforts and receiving ongoing support, the pantry can continue to provide essential aid to those who depend on it most. The community's response to this call for help will play a pivotal role in maintaining these vital services.