The Manna Food Project (Manna), a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization, is a food bank that serves 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 and other events highlighting the importance of healthy, fresh food.
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.
Manna’s first annual Empty Bowls Luncheon takes place at Stafford’s Perry Hotel.
Our current site is purchased in McBride Park, with construction beginning in the fall.
Our organization’s name is officially change to The Manna Food Project, Inc.
First annual Petoskey-Bay View CROP Hunger Walk takes place, benefiting Manna and other area pantries.
A new van is purchased, increasing food rescue and delivery capacity.
Manna implements a new computer tracking system to replace hand-written logbooks.
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.
Manna becomes a Partner Distribution Organization with the renamed Feeding America West Michigan (previously West Michigan Gleaners).
Manna launches the “Food 4 Kids” Backpack Program.
A large refrigerated box truck is purchased through Dave Kring Chevrolet and a Walmart Foundation grant.
A first “Produce for People” program is launched, improving the quality and nutritional value of the foods Manna distributes to its pantry and partners.
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.
Nutrition education programming expands with recognition of hunger as a health issue.
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.
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.
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.
Manna begins a mobile pantry program to serve northern Emmet County where there are food deserts.
Manna’s first annual “Manna Gala” fundraiser takes place. The mobile pantry program is expanded to included deliveries to homebound individuals in high-density areas.