Business Details
45 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Partner in Hunger Relief in Flint, MI
The Food Bank Of Eastern Michigan has been dedicated to fighting hunger since 1981, starting as a grassroots initiative in Genesee County. Over four decades, we have grown into a vital resource distributing over 39 million pounds of food annually across 22 counties. Our operations rely on partnerships with grocers, farmers, and manufacturers to source surplus food that would otherwise go to waste. Through a network of nearly 600 partner agencies, we ensure food reaches those in need without charge. Our team manages emergency responses, such as during the Flint Water Crisis and the pandemic, demonstrating adaptability and commitment. We operate state-of-the-art facilities, including a production kitchen that supports school feeding programs.Transparency and efficiency are core values, with 98% of donations directly funding food and feeding programs. Recognized nationally for excellence, we continue innovating through technology and distribution strategies. Our board includes leaders from diverse sectors, guiding our mission with expertise and community insight. Volunteers play a critical role, contributing thousands of hours annually to sort and package food. We remain focused on expanding access to nutritious food for children, families, seniors, and veterans in Eastern Michigan.
Services
Food Distribution
SNAP Outreach
Kids Backpack Program
Mobile Pantry
Summer Food Service
Details
- Year established: 1981
Highlights and features
- We have over 40 years of experience addressing food insecurity in Eastern Michigan
- Our partnerships with major retailers maximize food recovery and distribution efficiency
- 98% of donations directly fund food and feeding programs
- We operate state-of-the-art facilities including a dedicated Hunger Solution Center
- Our emergency response teams have supported crises like the Flint Water Emergency
Services
Food Distribution
We distribute millions of pounds of food annually through partner agencies. Our network includes 600+ hunger relief partners like pantries, schools, and shelters. This service ensures nutritious food reaches vulnerable populations including children, seniors, and veterans.
SNAP Outreach
Our specialists help residents apply for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits. We provide guidance through the application process and connect clients with additional resources. This service increases access to government nutrition programs for low-income families.
Kids Backpack Program
This initiative provides weekend food packs to schoolchildren facing food insecurity. Each backpack contains easy-to-prepare meals and snacks. The program ensures children have consistent nutrition when school meals aren't available.
Mobile Pantry
Our mobile distribution units bring food directly to underserved communities. These units reach areas with limited access to traditional food pantries. The service provides fresh produce, dairy, and proteins to thousands of families annually.
Summer Food Service
We provide nutritious meals to children during summer breaks when school lunches aren't available. The program operates at multiple community sites. This service prevents summer nutrition gaps for thousands of children annually.
People
Alex Murray
Board Chair
Retired labor union leader with extensive nonprofit governance experience. Brings strategic leadership to guide FBEM's mission expansion and community partnerships.
Peggy Haw Jury
Chair Elect
Certified public accountant providing financial expertise to ensure FBEM's fiscal responsibility and sustainable growth strategies.
Tony Burks
Vice Chair
Business development executive leveraging corporate partnerships to enhance food sourcing and distribution capabilities.
Greg Viener
Treasurer
Banking executive managing financial operations and ensuring responsible stewardship of donor resources.
Leanne Panduren
Secretary
CEO with leadership experience in professional services, contributing strategic planning and operational excellence to FBEM's initiatives.
Questions
How can I receive food assistance?
Use our online 'Find Food' tool to locate nearby partner agencies. Our network serves all 22 counties in Eastern Michigan.
How do donations help?
Every dollar provides 6 meals through our efficient procurement system and partnerships with major food retailers.
Can I volunteer?
Yes! Volunteers help sort and package food. Visit our website to sign up for available shifts.
What areas do you serve?
We operate across 22 counties in Eastern Michigan, including Genesee, Oakland, and Saginaw counties.
How is food quality ensured?
All donations are inspected upon arrival. We follow strict safety protocols for storage, handling, and distribution.
Are donations tax-deductible?
Yes, as a 501(c)3 organization, all contributions are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law.
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