How The Green Apple Pantry Served Over 20,000 Neighbors Last Year

Every year, the Green Apple Pantry works tirelessly to serve families in Southeast Kent County. Last year alone, we provided balanced groceries to over 20,000 neighbors through our core pantry program, emergency food support, and quarterly USDA commodity distributions.

A Growing Need

The need in our community continues to grow. In the zip codes we serve — 49508, 49548, 49512, and 49316 — poverty rates hover around 56.7% and unemployment sits at 14.7%. These numbers represent real families, our neighbors, who are working hard but still struggling to put food on the table.

Since 1985, The Green Apple Pantry has been a steady presence in this community. What started as a small church ministry serving 10 families a week has grown into an independent 501(c)(3) organization serving over 185 families weekly.

Programs That Make a Difference

Our senior pantry programs, serving three locations monthly, continue to be a lifeline for elderly residents on fixed incomes. The quarterly USDA Commodity Distribution events in March, June, September, and December provide additional support to families who qualify.

And thanks to our partnership with the Humane Society of West Michigan, the Kibble Konnection program ensures that pets in food-insecure households are cared for too. No one should have to choose between feeding their family and feeding their pet.

Thank You

None of this would be possible without our dedicated volunteers, generous donors, and community partners. Every dollar donated, every hour volunteered, and every can of food collected makes a direct impact on our neighbors. Thank you for nourishing neighbors and transforming lives with us.