Macomb County church's food giveaways more popular than ever
MACOMB COUNTY, Mich. (CBS DETROIT) - A Macomb County food pantry says it saw a massive increase in food distribution in 2023 compared to previous years.
"The demand for food is up more than 350%," says Harvest Time Christian Fellowship Pastor Curtiss Ostosh.
Ostosh and his team of volunteers start their mornings early, making rounds to various warehouses that belong to nonprofits like the Salvation Army and picking up some of their stored supplies.
Harvest Time Christian Fellowship does scheduled food giveaways every Tuesday and Friday, generally from 2 to 6 p.m.
"We thought we were doing a lot a few years ago when we helped about 1500 people a month. Now, consistently through all of 2023, we've helped more than 6000 people a month," Ostosh says.
With many people coming through their doors, it takes hours of preparation to get food ready for residents who need it.
"With the price of food and the price of gas right now, people have a tough time making it. So, it's just like every morning, we've got to do it because people just truly need the help," says Sue Ostosh.
"I don't have any help or family, so this is a very great source for me," said Karimah Muhammad, a Warren resident on disability. "It is so important for us. The older people, disabled people that can't get for themselves, and they give us a chance twice a week."
