Pontiac, Mich. – August 30, 2016 - Lighthouse of Oakland County is currently experiencing one of the largest increases in demand for food they've seen during the summer months and Genisys Credit Union is determined to help.
"We experienced a 44% increase in the number of children served by the food pantry from May to June, and that increase held steady in July," said Lighthouse CEO Rick David. "During the 20152016 fiscal year ending June 30, 2016, the Lighthouse Food Pantry served 16,576 individuals, 40% of them being children," he said.
As September is “Hunger Awareness Month,” Genisys Credit Union is taking the lead on helping by organizing an employee food drive from their 16 locations throughout Oakland County. President/CEO Jackie Buchanan, a Lighthouse Trustee said, "Genisys puts a major emphasis on community involvement through our 'Making a Difference' campaigns, and Lighthouse is an organization whose work we hold in high regard. I challenge other organizations to organize food drives to help address hunger in our community."
Donations are critical to the Lighthouse Food Pantry the only food pantry open five days per week in Oakland County. "This increase validates the research that approximately 300,000 children in Southeast Michigan receive free and reduced-price lunches at school. We help replace both lunch and often breakfast for these children and their families during the summer months," said Wilma Abney, Chief Program Officer.
Without access to adequate food and nutrition during the summer months and beyond, the educational and developmental impact to children and families is well documented. Lighthouse is asking for the community's help in meeting this increase in demand for food. Perishable and nonperishable items are needed. Among the items are Peanut Butter & Jelly, Tuna, Soups, Cereals, Baby Food & Formula, Milk, Vegetables, Fruits, Canned Fruits & Vegetables, Rice, Canned Beans, Diapers, Toilet Paper, Paper Towel, Shampoo & Conditioner, Deodorant, Toothpaste and Toothbrushes, Dish Detergent and soaps.
