Business Details
42 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Partner for Hunger Relief Solutions in Michigan
Founded in 1984, the Michigan Food Bank Council has been at the forefront of addressing hunger through strategic collaboration and resource management. Our organization was established in response to severe unemployment crises impacting Michigan communities, creating a unified network to distribute emergency food resources and advocate for systemic change. Over four decades, we've developed innovative programs like the Michigan Agricultural Surplus System (MASS) to source 27 million pounds of local produce annually while supporting farmers.Our dedicated team works across 134 counties to combat food insecurity affecting 15% of residents, maintaining a strategic focus on dignified nutrition access. With a 501(c)(3) nonprofit status, we leverage tax-deductible donations to expand partnerships and implement solutions tailored to Michigan's unique needs. Our board and executive leadership, including Executive Director Dr. Phil Knight, maintain a clear vision for statewide food security through sustainable practices and community empowerment initiatives.
Services
Food Distribution
SNAP Assistance
Agricultural Surplus Program
Emergency Food Resources
Hunger Advocacy
Details
- Year established: 1984
Highlights and features
- 40 years of proven hunger relief expertise across Michigan
- Innovative agricultural surplus program supporting local farmers
- Statewide network serving all 134 Michigan counties
- Tax-deductible donations maximize community impact
- Collaborative approach with government and private sector partners
Associations and certifications
- 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Organization
Services
Food Distribution
Our statewide food distribution network delivers millions of pounds of nutritious food annually to Michigan residents facing food insecurity. Through coordinated efforts with regional food banks, we ensure equitable access to fresh produce, protein, and dairy products. This critical service addresses immediate hunger needs while supporting long-term food security initiatives across all 134 Michigan counties.
SNAP Assistance
We provide comprehensive assistance with SNAP benefit applications and eligibility determination through our dedicated F.O.R. Helpline. Our trained specialists help Michigan residents navigate the application process and connect with additional community resources. This service ensures vulnerable populations access vital nutrition assistance programs efficiently and effectively.
Agricultural Surplus Program
The Michigan Agricultural Surplus System (MASS) creates mutually beneficial partnerships between local farmers and food banks. This innovative program purchases excess produce, protein, and dairy from Michigan farms to distribute through our network. In FY24 alone, we facilitated 27.6 million pounds of Michigan-grown food for both state and national distribution.
Emergency Food Resources
Our emergency food resources provide immediate relief during unexpected crises through coordinated distribution efforts. The network responds rapidly to natural disasters, economic downturns, and other emergencies affecting food access. This service maintains Michigan's resilience against sudden food insecurity challenges through pre-established response protocols.
Hunger Advocacy
We advocate for systemic policy changes to address root causes of food insecurity through legislative engagement and public awareness campaigns. Our advocacy efforts focus on improving access to nutrition programs, supporting agricultural sustainability, and expanding social safety nets. This work complements direct food distribution with long-term solutions for Michigan families.
People
Dr. Phil Knight
Executive Director
Dr. Phil Knight leads Michigan's hunger relief efforts with decades of experience in nonprofit management and public health initiatives. His leadership focuses on innovative solutions to systemic food insecurity challenges while maintaining operational excellence across the statewide network.
Denise Donahue
Director of Communications
Denise Donahue manages media relations and public outreach for the Michigan Food Bank Council. With expertise in strategic communications, she coordinates public awareness campaigns and serves as primary media contact for hunger-related issues across the state.
Questions
What is the Food Bank Council of Michigan's primary mission?
Our mission is to create a food-secure Michigan through advocacy, resource management, and collaboration among stakeholders and our unified food bank network.
How can I find local food assistance in Michigan?
Use our online food bank locator or contact our F.O.R. Helpline at 800-552-4483 to connect with emergency food resources in your Michigan community.
Does FBCM accept food donations?
While we coordinate food distribution, direct donations should go to local food banks. We accept monetary donations that support statewide hunger relief efforts and agricultural partnerships.
How does the MASS program benefit Michigan farmers?
The Michigan Agricultural Surplus System creates additional markets for Michigan farmers by purchasing excess produce, protein, and dairy for food bank distribution.
Can I volunteer with Michigan's hunger relief efforts?
Volunteer opportunities are available through local food banks across Michigan. Contact your regional food bank directly for volunteer programs and community engagement opportunities.
How is FBCM addressing childhood food insecurity?
We target childhood food insecurity through school meal programs, summer feeding initiatives, and partnerships that specifically address the 18% food insecurity rate among Michigan children.
