| Description |
<p>There are over 40,000 people living in the city of Flint that live below the federal poverty level. Poverty, coupled with the Flint Water Crisis, as well as the COVID-19 pandemic are the major issues our city faces on a daily basis. We have witnessed the impact of these events over the last several years and have seen families who don't normally need our assistance now need them. Many of our clients receive government assistance in the form of SNAP (food stamps - Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), but sometimes there is a gap and that's where Crossover can help out. Once every 30 days our clients can come in and receive food. They will take with them (3) days of well-rounded meals including breakfast, lunch, dinner and a snack. We also host mobile food giveaways to reach more people in need. People who desperately need food, clothing and personal items can't wait for regular office hours or red tape. Assistance with basic needs is required to keep low income households together to combat hunger and homelessness. To best serve our clients, Crossover is open more days and hours than other local food pantries. We operate entirely with private funding and a diverse network of donors and volunteers. Crossover partners with more than 100 local human service agencies that screen and refer clients so that staff and volunteers can focus on providing direct emergency services with a minimum of bureaucracy and excessive reporting procedures. We believe that low income residents should not have to accept poor quality goods and services and every effort is made on our end to ensure that our offerings reflect the best available quality and selection. All workers ensure that every item (whether it is food, clothing, or personal care) is something they would choose for themselves of their own family. The grant money, if awarded, will go directly towards keeping our food pantry stocked so that we can continue to get food out to our clients. There are no geographic boundaries to keep someone away who needs our assistance, but we do primarily serve Flint and Genesee County Michigan. We serve individuals and families of all ages, races, sexual orientation, gender...we welcome all who need assistance and want them to know that they will find the love and respect they deserve when they work with us. </p> |
