The Manna Food Project
Manna Food Project (Manna), a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization, helps feed the hungry in Antrim, Charlevoix, and Emmet Counties. Over 250 committed volunteers, partnering with a staff of seven, work together to achieve our mission.
- Manna is a partner organization of the national Feeding America Food Bank Network.
- Manna operates a food bank (distribution center), a food rescue program, a weekly food pantry, and the Food 4 Kids backpack program.
- Manna also partners with community agencies and local businesses to host cooking classes, community dinners, and other events highlighting the importance of healthy, fresh food.
Our Story
Manna Food Project truly has humble beginnings. Our organization was founded in 1987 by five compassionate leaders in the local Northern Michigan community: Jim Alton, Joe Baird, Dennis Cross, Larry Poller, and Budd Tallberg.
They saw that far too many in their community didn’t have enough food to eat, and they took action. Originally conceived as a soup kitchen, the operation soon began distributing non-perishable food to families in need from a small warehouse on Buckley Street in Petoskey.
The program began to grow, and, after several moves and administration changes, Manna came to be what it is today: a well-respected, community-based organization that succeeds through a shared compassion for helping those in need.
Manna became a Partner Distribution Organization of the national Feeding America Food Bank Network in 2009. Feeding America West Michigan is our primary source of healthy food to distribute to our clients and partner agencies. In 2017, Feeding America West Michigan distributed 26.7 million pounds of food, the equivalent of more than 22 million meals to help relieve hunger and increase food security in West Michigan and the Upper Peninsula.
A Glimpse of Manna History
1986
The idea to feed the hungry begins as sharing soup and sandwiches with those in need.
1987
The Manna Project is incorporated. Warehouse space is rented on Clarion Avenue in Petoskey. A food pantry is open two days a week.
1988
Manna moves to Buckley Ave. A formal food bank is established by partnering with West Michigan Gleaners, an affiliate of the Second Harvest National Food Bank Network. This encourages other organizations in the area to begin food pantries.1992
Manna’s first annual Empty Bowls Luncheon takes place at Stafford’s Perry Hotel.1993
Our current site is purchased in McBride Park, with construction beginning in the fall.2004
Our organization’s name is officially change to The Manna Food Project, Inc.2005
First annual Petoskey-Bay View CROP Hunger Walk takes place, benefiting Manna and other area pantries.2006
A new van is purchased, increasing food rescue and delivery capacity.2007
Manna implements a new computer tracking system to replace hand-written logbooks.2008
Manna’s first annual “Golf Fore Manna” charity outing takes place. Warehouse expansion begins, increasing warehouse and freezer space and a new “clean room” to repack bulk food items.2009
Manna becomes a Partner Distribution Organization with the renamed Feeding America West Michigan (previously West Michigan Gleaners).2011
Manna launches the “Food 4 Kids” Backpack Program.2015
A large refrigerated box truck is purchased through Dave Kring Chevrolet and a Walmart Foundation grant.2016
A first “Produce for People” program is launched, improving the quality and nutritional value of the foods Manna distributes to its pantry and partners.2017
Manna begins to organize cooking classes for hundreds of pantry clients, as a joint venture with the Health Department of Northwest Michigan and Groundwork Center for Resilient Communities.2018
Nutrition education programming expands with recognition of hunger as a health issue.2020
The COVID-19 pandemic closes schools and businesses for months. To combat the economic downturn and increased need, Manna launches mobile food pantries at Boyne Highlands and Odawa Casino.2021
Manna resumes Food Rescue and brings volunteers back into the building at a reduced rate. A drive through pantry was developed and was a great success.
2022
The COVID-19 pandemic is winding down and Manna’s operations continue to grow. A new barcoding and scanning system were implemented to streamline inventory and improve efficiency.
What's Next for Manna?
Every year we expand our reach to those who need it most.
Help us continue our mission to feed the hungry in Northern Michigan.
Testimonials
“This place is absolutely amazing! They help my family out and I’m truly blessed… Thank you!”
Jolene S.
“Central food bank with for needy folks as well as supplying other food banks. Good place to volunteer or donate.”
Candace W.
“This place is a gift from God! The people are so friendly and glad to help. I’m very thankful to be able to go here.”