MUNISING -- A community-led Alger County food pantry opened its doors on Thursday. The Michigan Department of Health Services originally operated the pantry.
With funding cuts, the MDHS turned to the community for support. Now several organizations, like the American Legion, the Wetmore Club, and several local churches, are taking over the responsibility.
The pantry offers canned goods and toiletries. Pastor Jim Ramelis says with these economic times, more people need help.
"There are people, who we call the new poor, who have never been poor, and they really don't know how the system works or how to get public assistance or food stamps or some of these other things," said Ramelis.
To keep the pantry open, the organizations will need $12,000 in donations.
Those who need help can stop by the Munising courthouse on Tuesdays and Thursdays from noon to 4:30 p.m.
If you would like to donate to the food pantry, contact Jim Ramelis at (906) 287-0538 or send donations to 312 Lynn St., Munising, MI 49862.
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