‘Tis the season to give back friends, so today I am sharing an easy way to “Pour it Forward,” and make a difference in southeastern Michigan.
Check out the information below I received from the United Dairy Industry of Michigan. If you have a few bucks to spare and happen to be shopping Kroger, I encourage you to donate to help a local struggling family.
In Michigan, food security is a major issue affecting one in six residents, and nearly one in four children. Millions of Americans use food banks annually to address their food needs, but historically, distributing a consistent supply of fresh milk has been a challenge. Nationwide, clients at food banks have access to less than one gallon of milk per person per year. During the month of November, Michigan’s dairy farm families will partner with Kroger stores and Forgotten Harvest to bridge this gap and give the gift of milk to Michigan families struggling with food insecurity.
Consumers at nearly 90 Kroger stores in Wayne, Macomb and Oakland counties will be encouraged to ‘Pour it Forward’ and increase access to nutrient-rich milk for families in need by purchasing paper gallon slips to donate one or more gallons of milk at check out. The donated milk will be distributed to hungry Michigan families through Forgotten Harvest’s distribution centers.
Forgotten Harvest, whose mission is to relieve hunger throughout the Detroit metropolitan community, is thrilled to be able to provide milk to the families they serve. “Milk is one of the most requested items by families, but in the past dairy has comprised only about five percent of our food offerings. We’re excited to be able to give people such an excellent source of nutrition through one of their preferred foods,” says Susan Goodell, President and CEO of Forgotten Harvest. “We’re grateful to Michigan’s dairy farmers and to the folks at Kroger for helping make this happen.”
Milk is a top source of high-quality protein, making it an important nutritional source for people of all ages. A recent study shows that milk is the No. 1 food source of key ingredients including calcium, vitamin D and protein for children – while contributing only 7 percent of calories. “Adding fresh milk to children’s diets can help them get the two to three cups a day of low-fat or fat-free dairy products that are recommended by current Dietary Guidelines,” says Sharon Toth, CEO of United Dairy Industry of Michigan.
The campaign will run through Nov. 30, with the goal of providing 25,000 gallons of Michigan milk to families in need.
How do you plan to give back this holiday season?
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