Community Action House, Local Partners, WHTC
Nina Vestal
WHTC: Hunger Awareness Weekend

Tune into last week's WHTC Talk of the Town episode where our very own Assistant Director of Food Access, Chara Bouma-Prediger, and Annual Funds Manager Shanna Van Kempen speak on all of the events taking place this weekend during Holland's Hunger Awareness, and how you can get involved!

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October eNews

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Program Updates

Financial Wellness

Recently, Julia* reached out to our Financial Wellness team for support. Despite Julia’s best efforts to pay off thousands of dollars in credit card debt through consistent monthly payments, high interest rates stacked up and her debt only grew. She felt overwhelmed and uncertain about how to move forward.

That’s when Julia connected with one of our Financial Wellness Specialists, Tabitha. Together, they explored different options, and Julia soon felt confident about her next steps. Just hours after speaking with Tabitha, Julia applied for a personal loan through a credit union and was able to pay off her credit card debt! Without the high interest rates through the credit card company, Julia felt equipped to pay off the personal loan with manageable, fixed monthly payments.

Reflecting on the experience, Tabitha shared, "We’re so thankful that we can provide guidance to our guests and encourage them to take steps toward a brighter financial future." Julia’s determination, combined with the right support, helped her overcome this complex challenge— empowering her to move ahead with confidence.

*Name and photo changed for privacy

Food Club

Meet Sarah, one of our amazing volunteer Food Club Cashiers. For Sarah, volunteering isn’t just about scanning groceries—it’s about making connections and seeing the impact healthy food can have on our community!

Sarah’s favorite part about volunteering with us is watching the excitement on children’s faces when they get to choose fresh fruits to bring home. For many of our neighbors, it’s their first time having consistent access to fresh produce. At Food Club, kids are discovering how delicious and fun eating healthy can be—some have even told her that fresh fruits are their favorite food now! Sarah loves seeing the difference it makes, knowing that this access to nutritious food not only brings joy, but also equips the next generation with the tools needed to build healthier futures. 

Thank you, Sarah, for helping our neighbors find joy in nourishing foods and for the care you bring to every interaction!

Want to build a healthier community alongside volunteers like Sarah? 

Outreach

At Community Action House, we know it’s crucial to have a targeted approach that helps remove barriers for guests as they work towards stability. That’s why in 2022, we launched a partnership with Community Mental Health, which allowed us to expand our Outreach Team with the addition of a Recovery Coach. 

Our Recovery Coach, Jess, plays a pivotal role in breaking down barriers and providing specialized support for neighbors seeking greater stability, while also offering essential connections to mental health and recovery support resources. Since we've added the role, our Recovery Coach has already worked with over 30 neighbors to maintain sobriety and connect them with the services they need to move forward on their journey toward stability.

Recently, Jess had the opportunity to represent us at Recovery Fest, a community event that honors and celebrates those overcoming mental health and substance use challenges. The event not only celebrates the incredible strength of our neighbors, but also increases awareness about the vital resources available to our community. 

Community Kitchen

Richard* moved to our community a few months ago, living out of his car and feeling unsure of where to turn for support. With no way to store fresh, healthy food, Richard was looking for a way to access the nourishment he needed when he learned about the Community Kitchen.

Richard visited the Kitchen and immediately felt overwhelmed by the radically welcoming community he was met with. Though Richard initially went to the Kitchen to gain access to the nourishment he needed, he continued to come back for the friendships he built and the resources he was connected to. 

At the Kitchen, Richard began working with our Outreach Team and now has a stable source of income! With this in place, our Outreach Team connected Richard with a community partner who is working with him to secure safe, stable housing. 

Richard’s story is a reminder of the power of a welcoming community, where kindness and support nourish more than just the body—they empower people to move forward with hope and strength.

*Name and photo changed for privacy

Program Highlight

36,000 pounds of potatoes donated through Lakeshore Food Rescue!

At Action House, one of the main ways we source food for our Food Club is through generous community donations. Earlier this month, our Lakeshore Food Rescue Team received a donation of 36,000 lbs of potatoes! Sheldon Weibe of Macgregor, Manitoba partnered with the Farmlink Project and shipped loads of potatoes all over the country. Through this donation, we were not only able to fully stock our Food Club with all the potatoes our guests could use, but were also able to share the wealth with our partner organizations Feeding America West Michigan, Hungry For Christ, Love in Action, and Jehovah Jireh! 

We are so grateful to Sheldon Weibe and Farmlink Project, for helping us build a stronger, healthier community! 

Save the Date!

Voter Registration at First United Methodist Church

Stop by First United Methodist Church on Friday, October 11th from 9-11am and register to vote, or find out if you’re already registered. Thank you to the League of Women Voters for sponsoring this event and empowering all our neighbors to have their voices be heard. Remember to vote on November 5th!

In Case You Missed It

Fox 17 Morning Mix: Hunger Action Month

CEO, Scott Rumpsa, shared on the Morning Mix last month about Hunger Action Month and opportunities for our community to get involved and help nourish our neighbors.

 

The Holland Sentinel: Hunger Action Month

Our friends at the Holland Sentinel highlighted opportunities for our community to get involved and help nourish our neighbors during Hunger Action Month.

WHTC's Talk of the Town

Director of Food Access, Chara Bouma-Prediger, shared on WHTC in September about Hunger Action Month and how our programs have grown in the past years.

 

Celebrating Compassion in Action - VolBASH 2024

Every day, across all of our programs, our work is made possible by hundreds of volunteers. Last month, we celebrated the incredible 2,300+ individuals who powered our service last year, turning their Compassion into Action to build a stronger, healthier community.

Join The Movement

Volunteer

Volunteer time and talent powers our programs.

Champion

Host a Fundraiser or Donation Drive!

Give

Your support sustains and expands our service.

The Holland Sentinel: Hunger Action Month

Last month, during Hunger Action Month, we called on our community to nourish our neighbors by volunteering, donating, or hosting a food drive with us. We are so grateful to everyone who contributed time, resources, and energy and joined us in building a stronger, healthier community!

In their article, our friends at The Holland Sentinel highlighted the challenges over 32,000 of our neighbors are facing to access the nourishment they need, and how the need for collaborative community solutions is more present than ever. They shared how it takes the work of our entire community to make stories like Alice’s possible – a guest who is no longer at risk for diabetes since having access to healthy food options and resources to build a brighter future!  

We were thrilled to be featured in the Holland Sentinel's article. The piece highlights the impact our community can have when we work together, and we're grateful for the recognition. 


You can read the full article here: Here's how to help your Holland neighbors during September's Hunger Action Month.

Happy Hispanic Heritage Month!

Community Action House is excited to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by partnering with our friends at Latin Americans United for Progress! From September 15th-October 15th, 10% of Resale Store sales will support their work to empower Latinos to participate in creating a better community for all.

Hispanic Heritage Month honors the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities in the United States. Beginning on September 15th, it coincides with the independence days of several Latin American countries, such as Mexico, Chile, Costa Rica, and others. This celebration highlights the impact of Hispanic communities, and serves as an opportunity to deepen our understanding of the diverse cultures within the Latino community, fostering greater appreciation and connection with our neighbors.

At Action House, we're proud to serve and celebrate all of our neighbors. We strive to build a culture, within our organization and our broader community, where all of our neighbors experience a profound sense of belonging. Our vision of a stronger, healthier community is one that supports, celebrates, and equally values all of its members.

“Recognizing and celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month allows our community to acknowledge the rich history, vibrant culture, and numerous contributions made by Hispanic individuals, both in our local community and across the nation. By recognizing and honoring the numerous achievements of Hispanic individuals, we promote inclusivity and unity in our 30% Hispanic city. Together, let us preserve and promote this invaluable heritage, fostering the well-being and strength of our entire community.  ¡Aquí Estamos!”  - Maria Morales, LAUP

In 2023, our team began a new partnership with LAUP to help guests achieve success in their Workforce Development program. As our team works one-on-one with Action House guests, we’re able to connect individuals to LAUP’s career support services, educational resources, and language services. Since August of 2023, 120 guests have joined this important effort, benefitting from programs ranging from computer classes to career coaching and resume support! In addition to this partnership, LAUP is frequently onsite at Food Club, offering their resources in a convenient place for our community to build a brighter future. 

Supporting local businesses during Hispanic Heritage Month is a meaningful way to celebrate the contributions of the Hispanic community and honor their histories. We are so fortunate here in Holland to be surrounded by vibrant and creative neighbors working to build community through their businesses. Your support during this month—and beyond—helps sustain our local businesses and community!

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September eNews

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Dear friends,

September is Hunger Action Month. 

At Action House, we believe that nourishing our neighbors takes more than a meal, and we’re on a mission to ensure that all of our neighbors have the nourishing food and resources they need to build a stronger, healthier future. We know, and research shows, that health is built by more than biology - it's shaped by our access to healthy food, the safety of our homes, the stability of our jobs, the quality of our education, and the support of our community. Each of these factors impact our well-being and the opportunities we have to live a full and healthy life. 

Hunger doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Families who struggle to access the food they need often face other challenges, and a setback in one area creates a ripple effect across systems: education, childcare, employment, housing, healthcare, food, finances, and transportation. Complex problems require holistic solutions - that’s why we combine healthy food access, resource navigation, financial empowerment, and street outreach to build a community where all of our neighbors have what they need to thrive, and no one faces challenges alone.

When someone comes to us—whether for groceries, housing support, or a hot meal at the Community Kitchen—we see it as an opportunity to offer more than just immediate help. We meet guests in the pivotal moment between a challenge and a crisis to find solutions that lead to lasting change.

In Ottawa County, over 32,000 neighbors struggle to access the nourishment they need. Our impact is only possible because thousands of our neighbors say “yes” to powering our services. As more and more families turn to us for support, we need neighbors like you to Act with Action House!

Join us in action this month by:

So many of you are already so pivotal in this work - thank you, for volunteering, donating, supporting, and showing up for our neighbors in so many ways.

Gratefully,

Scott Rumpsa | Chief Executive Officer

Program Updates

Financial Wellness

Recently, Food Club member, Amy*, reached out to our Financial Wellness team for support. With thousands of dollars in debt, Amy was unsure of how to move forward to pay it off. 

Amy began working closely with one of our Financial Wellness Specialists, Bill, and together they were able to negotiate with the banks and settle Amy’s debt, saving her 48%!

Reflecting on her experience, Amy expressed “I’m so thankful for your team’s help. It has made such a difference in my life!” We’re proud to provide the individualized, highly relational financial empowerment that our neighbors deserve, and we’re lucky to celebrate alongside them as they work towards a brighter future.

*Name and photo changed for privacy

Food Club

Last month our Healthy@Home program partnered with our friends from Corewell Health to host a Make & Take Popsicle Workshop! In this workshop, families came together to make their own flavors of homemade popsicles using fresh, healthy ingredients. 

Kids also had the opportunity to become “Sugar Detectives” for the afternoon– learning how to spot and avoid added sugars and fun ways to eat more of the good stuff.

One guest shared “it’s so important to go to Healthy@Home classes with my kids because I get to see the joy on their faces when they learn that healthy eating can be tasty too!” We love to see families equipping the next generation with the tools and knowledge needed to enjoy healthy (but tasty!) treats!

Interested in attending a Healthy@Home class? Visit communityactionhouse.org/events

Outreach

New to the area, Henry* reached out to our team when he found himself without a safe place to call home. With no birth certificate, no social security card, no ID, and physical disabilities that limited his work opportunities, Henry faced a difficult journey. 

Working together, step-by-step, Henry and our team navigated the complex web of resources that could help him find safe, stable housing. After acquiring his birth certificate from out of state, Henry was able to obtain a Michigan driver’s license and find a stable source of income. With these key pieces in place, and with the help of our partners at a local transitional housing agency, Henry was able to move into safe, stable housing! Henry shared that he was so grateful to be able to connect with our team and that these resources helped him feel empowered to continue pursuing stability.

*Name and photo changed for privacy

Community Kitchen

Over the past few months, our team at the Community Kitchen has felt so encouraged - several guests have reached out to Chef Heidi, asking how they can become more involved at the Kitchen. Guests offer to help prepare meals, wash dishes, clean up after service, and more. One neighbor noted “It feels good to contribute and really be part of something.” We love seeing guests jump in to continue building a stronger community for all of our neighbors! 

At the Community Kitchen, many of our guests struggle with unsafe or unstable housing, food insecurity, and financial instability. When our neighbors visit the Community Kitchen, they find healthy meals, a place to rest, and so much more. Shared meals are one of the oldest and truest forms of love and connection, and as guests gather and eat together, they get to know each other and build a community of support.

Save the Date!

September 10 is Hunger Action Day!

Nourishing our neighbors takes more than a meal, and we're challenging the community to think about hunger differently. Learn how you can take action with Action House at communityactionhouse.org/actwithactionhouse!

September is Hispanic Heritage Month!

Throughout each year, our Resale Store partners with nonprofit organizations at the forefront of DEI work in our community. This month, we’re glad to partner our friends at Latin Americans United for Progress in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month!

Join us from September 15th-October 15th, and 10% of store profits will support LAUP’s efforts to empower Latinos to participate in creating a better community for all. Learn more about their efforts at laup.org.

At Action House, we're proud to serve and celebrate all of our neighbors. We strive to build a culture, within our organization and our broader community, where all of our neighbors experience a profound sense of belonging. Our vision of a stronger, healthier community is one that supports, celebrates, and equally values all of its members.

In Case You Missed It

Hunger Action Month: Nourishing our neighbors takes more than a meal

Health is built by more than biology. Learn more about the factors that help us build a full, healthy life!

 

How 'Fresh Fridges' are expanding access to nutritious foods

Our Lakeshore Food Rescue team recently added two more locations to our Fresh Fridges initiative! Fresh Fridges bring fresh food options to our neighbors who need it most.

WHTC's Talk of the Town

Senior Manager of Lakeshore Food Rescue, Krista Burgett, shared on WHTC about the opportunities community members have to host food and winter gear drives to help build a stronger, healthier community.

 

MiSustainableHolland: Hope College Students Collaborate with Lakeshore Food Rescue

Learn about Hope College students who are helping turn excess food into food access with Action House's Lakeshore Food Rescue initiative.

Join The Movement

Volunteer

Volunteer time and talent powers our programs.

Champion

Host a Fundraiser or Donation Drive!

Give

Your support sustains and expands our service.

What Drives Our Health? Nourishing our Neighbors takes More than a Meal

Research shows that health is built by more than biology– it’s shaped by our daily lives and environments. Studies  have identified Social Drivers of Health: factors that play a significant role in determining our overall health. Things like our financial stability, the quality of our education, our access to healthcare, the safety of our homes, the stability of our jobs, and the support of our community all play a significant role in determining our overall well-being and the opportunities we have to live a full and healthy life (Healthy People 2023, n.d.a). 

At Action House we’re committed to providing a streamlined path towards health and stability -  working together to build a community where all of our neighbors have what they need to thrive. When someone comes to us—whether for groceries, housing support, or a hot meal at the Community Kitchen—we see it as an opportunity to offer more than just immediate help. In the pivotal moment between a challenge and a crisis we don’t stop at a short term solution - we work with guests to find integrated solutions that lead to lasting change.


What are Social Drivers of Health?

Economic Stability

When neighbors struggle to make ends meet, they are forced to make suboptimal choices such as forgoing healthy food for cheaper but less nutritious options, delaying preventative physical and mental health care, compromising on safe and supportive child care, and cutting back on investments in their children’s education. The forcing of their hand drives  long-term damage to both their health and the educational and socioeconomic attainment of their children. 

Food insecurity is financial insecurity. While we focus on food as a leading barrier for families, our service continues past the provision of basic needs to help build long term stability. Through one-on-one financial counseling and financial workshops, our team provides relationship based support to equip families with the tools and knowledge they need to build a solid financial foundation. 

Education Access and Quality

Education is a powerful determinant of health. Individuals with higher levels of education often have access to job opportunities that offer higher pay, safer working conditions, and comprehensive health benefits. These advantages contribute to better overall health by enabling individuals to afford nutritious food, quality healthcare, and a stable living environment. Conversely, limited access to education often correlates with lower-paying jobs and a lack of resources, increasing the likelihood of encountering health issues such as heart disease, diabetes, and mental health challenges (Healthy People 2030, n.d.b).

We are so grateful to our community partners who help build a stronger, healthier community by offering educational programs and support - from ODC Network Preschools, to the State of Michigan’s Great Start Readiness Program, to CDS Lakeshore Head Start, to I Am Academy. With these groups providing critical early childhood education, our team can focus on providing streamlined connection to these resources as we work with guests in the Opportunity Hub.

Health Care Access and Quality

Access to healthcare is crucial for maintaining good health - it provides preventive care, early diagnoses, and effective treatment for both acute and chronic conditions, reducing the risk of complications and improving quality of life. Barriers like high costs, lack of insurance, and transportation challenges often prevent marginalized communities from accessing necessary care (Healthy People 2030, n.d.a; World Health Organization, 2021).


In the Food Club & Opportunity Hub, our team collaborates with community health partners like Corewell Health, miOttawa Department of Public Health, and Molina Healthcare to bring essential health services directly to our neighbors onsite at Food Club. These partnerships ensure that our community members have access to preventive care, health education, and resources, helping them stay healthy and informed.

Safe and Stable Housing

Without safe and stable housing, it becomes increasingly challenging to think about the factors that lead to a healthy life– like building economic stability and accessing healthy food. When people have a safe and secure place to sleep at night, they’re better positioned to take other steps toward improving their quality of life in a sustainable way. Without a question of “Where will I sleep tonight?” in the back of their mind, a person is much more able to put their energy and effort towards decisions and actions that can create a prosperous future.

The population of Ottawa County is growing much faster than the supply of local housing. The current rate of vacancy in our county is just 1%, and a healthy market has a vacancy rate of about 5-6% (United Way, 2021, p. 45). With so few affordable housing options available, the cost of housing increases, and our neighbor’s budgets are stretched beyond the breaking point, forcing them to choose between paying for housing or other basic needs. Our team is working to provide both immediate housing assistance and long-term housing solutions. Through partnerships with Good Samaritan, First United Methodist Church, the Holland Police Department, and Dwelling Place of Grand Rapids, we help individuals and families secure safe, stable housing.

Social and Community Context

When individuals are surrounded by a strong, supportive network— through family, friends, neighbors, or local organizations—they are more likely to experience positive health outcomes. Community support can provide emotional encouragement, reduce stress, and foster a sense of belonging, all of which contribute to better mental and physical health (Berkman & Kawachi, 2000). Communities that actively engage in supporting one another often have greater access to resources like healthcare, nutritious food, and educational opportunities, which are essential for maintaining good health (Marmot & Wilkinson, 2006). In a connected community, people are more likely to help each other navigate challenges, building collective resilience that benefits everyone (World Health Organization, 2021).

Collaborative Care

Our integrated model is intentionally designed to deliver a range of housing, nutrition, and financial services at scale because we know–and research shows–that connected and streamlined support creates better and more lasting outcomes. But, we know that no single organization can provide all the building blocks needed for a healthy community. True, lasting change requires a collaborative approach, where each partner brings their unique strengths and resources to the table. We are proud to work alongside a network of dedicated community partners working across different drivers of health to provide a network of support for our neighbors.


Act with Action House

Nourishing our neighbors takes more than a meal -  it takes the compassion and action of an entire community, ensuring that the building blocks of health are accessible for all of our neighbors. In Ottawa County, over 32,000 neighbors struggle to access the nourishment they need. Our impact is only possible because thousands of our neighbors say “yes” to powering our services. As more and more families turn to us for support, we need neighbors like you to Act with Action House!

References



MiSustainable Article: Hope College Students Partner with Lakeshore Food Rescue

Hope College students stand with Joe, Food Rescue Coordinator for Lakeshore Food Rescue. 

At Action House, we work to ensure that every neighbor in our community has what they need to thrive - and we are consistently inspired by all of the ways that our community joins alongside in this work!

In their MiSustainable Holland Article, our friends at the Holland Sentinel recently highlighted the food rescue efforts of Hope College students in partnership with our Lakeshore Food Rescue team. We are so grateful to see their work, and the program, celebrated! You can read the full article here: Hope College student-led project puts surplus food to good use

The project, led by Hope College students, focuses on rescuing surplus food from the college's dining services and redirecting it to those in need. This initiative not only addresses the pressing issue of food waste—an ongoing concern given that nearly 40% of food produced in the U.S. is wasted—but also ensures that nutritious meals reach those who might otherwise go without.

Our Lakeshore Food Rescue program works to turn excess food into food access by collaborating with local grocery stores, businesses, and volunteers to rescue fresh food that would otherwise go to waste and redirect it to our neighbors who need it most. Learn more at lakeshorefoodrescue.org!

August '24 Lakeshore Food Rescue Update

Impact by the Numbers

July 2024

Pounds of food rescued - 305,728.50 lbs
Via LFR fleet and Food Rescue Hero

Pounds of food rescued at the Farmers Market - 13,191 lbs
Happening on every Wednesday & Saturday, since June 1, 2024

Pounds of food shared throughout our community- 152,943.50 lbs
Via LFR fleet and Food Rescue Hero

372.30 Tons of CO2eq emissions prevented* through rescuing food
* includes transport to landfill, fugitive methane emissions, energy recovery offset, and landfill carbon storage. See how this is calculated - here.

157 Food Rescues Completed
Through the Food Rescue Hero app

Celebrating 1 Year with Food Rescue Hero!

In July, we celebrated an entire year of using the Food Rescue Hero app! Our Lakeshore Food Rescue program utilizes this app to harness the power of volunteer drivers. Collecting surplus food from local retailers, the app helps us connect with local non-profit partners to ensure that fresh food gets to individuals and families who need it.

Over the past year, 70 volunteers have responded to notifications sent through the Food Rescue Hero app - turning excess food into healthy food access - by completing over 1,200 Food Rescues!

Join our team of Volunteer Food Rescue drivers today, by downloading the app (available on Apple and Android)! Claim a rescue route when it’s convenient for you, or sign up for a recurring route at the same time, same place each week. Reach out to Joe, our Food Rescue Coordinator & Volunteer Experience Champion if you have any questions.

Volunteer With Us at The Holland Farmers Market!

It’s August which means farmers are busy harvesting in Michigan! Support our local farmers by coming out to the market this month. Our partnership with the Holland farmers market vendors means we are collecting perfectly good produce, otherwise ending up in the landfill, and getting it to those who need it most. We hope you’ll consider joining us as a food rescue volunteer at the market this summer! 

Join us as a gleaner! As a Volunteer Gleaner, you’ll help rescue produce that local farmers and vendors donate at the end of the Market. Collecting at the market wouldn’t be possible without volunteers powering gleaning each Saturday & we’re actively seeking volunteers to join this season’s Gleaning crew! 

Power our Produce Donation table! We provide a Produce Donation table on Wednesdays throughout the summer, powered by volunteers! As a volunteer, you’ll staff the booth, talk about Action House & LFR with interested individuals, accept and weigh produce donations, and clean up at the end of the day!

Please sign up to glean or collect produce with us this summer, or share the links above with your friends & family to help us spread the word. We’re thankful for our partnership with the Holland Farmers Market, and for the variety of opportunities to engage in the market throughout the summer. We’ll see you at the Market!

Learn more about Food Rescue Volunteering!

Are you interested in learning more about Food Rescue volunteer opportunities with Action House? Join us for an in-person volunteer orientation. During orientation, you’ll learn how you can get involved and how you can help reduce food waste in our community!

Click here to sign up!

Want to get in contact with the Food Rescue team?

Contact Joe (Food Rescue Coordinator & Volunteer Experience Champion) at jguzman@communityactionhouse.org

August eNews

Program Updates

Financial Wellness

• • • • • •

This past March, Carrie* reached out to our team for support after losing her home through foreclosure in 2023. Financial Wellness Specialist, Bill, began working with Carrie - and discovered that Carrie was entitled to a significant amount of money from the sale of her home, which she had never received. Bill and Carrie worked together to navigate the complex legal process required to recapture these funds - and after months of work, Carrie was able to reclaim thousands of dollars that she was rightfully owed!

This unexpected recovery provided Carrie with a crucial financial lifeline, offering her much-needed stability and a chance to rebuild. Bill and Carrie will continue to work together as she plans her next steps, ensuring she feels equipped and confident about the futureo have a hearing, and prove she was the rightful owner to the proceeds. After the hearing the guest received a check for $61,973! We are glad that Carrie was able to receive her money, and Bill will continue to work with Carrie until she feels well equipped. 

*Name and photo changed for privacy

Outreach

• • • • • •

Shoutout to our friends at Electric Forest! Last month, our Outreach Team received over 75 items after their annual festival. Their team organized a Camp Gear Donation program - minimizing waste left over after their event, and providing items like tents, sleeping bags, and coolers to our Outreach Program! Other household items collected will support our programs through the Resale Store. If you're interested in supporting our team by providing similar items, visit our Amazon wishlist!

Their creativity and generosity means that our team can provide critical resources to neighbors experiencing homelessness while we work with them to achieve long term stability. Working in partnership with our Resource Navigators, our Outreach team finds those experiencing homelessness, assesses their unique needs, and begins executing a strategy to find them a home. As that process gets underway, individuals are invited to participate in resource navigation as well as access the Food Club & Opportunity Hub, Community Kitchen, and the Resale Store. 

Community Kitchen

• • • • • •

At the Community Kitchen, many of our guests struggle with unsafe or unstable housing, food insecurity, and financial instability. When neighbors visit the Community Kitchen, they find healthy meals, a place to rest, and a space to build community. In addition to the meals served onsite, we’re glad to offer to-go meals. After guests gather and eat together, many take to-go food with them - easing their worries about where their next meal might come from. It’s a small comfort that makes a big difference, and a reminder that they’re not alone. 

The generosity of Hope College’s Creative Dining team is a big reason we're able to offer to-go meals! By redirecting food to the Community Kitchen, their team avoids food waste and gets hot, healthy meals to neighbors who need them. We love this win-win for our community and the environment!

Food Club

• • • • • •

Our Healthy@Home program equips participants with the knowledge, tools, and confidence they need to build a healthy, balanced diet! Alongside other community members, Healthy@Home participants build skills, friendship, and connection. Anyone from the community is welcome to join!

In partnership with MSU Extension, one recent class taught members about the benefits of whole grains and ways to make your favorite comfort meal (Mac & cheese!) healthier. We’re grateful for partners and community members who work together to build healthier lifestyles!

Program Highlight!

It’s not every day that we see a donor under the age of 10! Last month, 6 year old Andrew visited our Resale Store. He had recently celebrated his birthday, and instead of presents, he asked for donations of food and personal care items to stock-the-shelves at Food Club! Andrew's visit was such a bright spot in our team's day.

Andrew reminded us that no matter what age, we can all take steps (big and small!) to show up for our neighbors. We're a community that leads with compassion, and we're grateful for families who are building a stronger, healthier future.

Feeling inspired by Andrew? Learn more about how you can host a drive or collect items to support families in our community!

Visit communityactionhouse.org/stocktheshelves!

In Case You Missed It!

MiSustainable Article: Holland Farmers Market Collaboration! - Community Action House

Our friends from the Holland Sentinel recently wrote an article about the Holland Farmers Market, and how the market offers fresh, local food and so much more. Read more below!

Community Action House Update July 10

Director of Food Access Programs, Chara Bouma-Prediger, joined WHTC last month, and talked about our different Food Access programs at Action House!

Volunteer time and talent powers our programs.

Host a Fundraiser or Donation Drive!

Your support sustains and expands our service.

MiSustainable Article: Holland Farmers Market Collaboration!

The Holland Farmers Market is more than just a place for local farmers and artisans to sell their goods—it's a vibrant community gathering spot. Beyond providing a space for fresh, local produce and handmade goods, the market is a strong partner in reducing food waste and enhancing food access in our community.

Lakeshore Food Rescue partners with the Holland Farmers Market to transform surplus food into nutritious meals for our community. On Wednesdays,  shoppers can donate fresh produce directly to Action House and other local nonprofits. On Saturdays, we have the opportunity to glean and collect high-quality, unsold produce and goods from the farmers. This collaboration ensures that good food reaches those who need it, rather than going to waste.

We were thrilled to be featured in the Holland Sentinel's recent MiSustainable article! The piece highlights the impactful work happening at the market, and we're grateful for the recognition. You can read the full article here :Holland Farmers Markets Offer More Than Just Food.

July eNews

Program Updates

Financial Wellness

Mary* has worked with Financial Wellness Specialist, Tabitha, since June of 2022 after being referred by our partners at Resilience. Mary had recently moved into a new home, but her air conditioner and furnace were completely broken. Mary removed the non-functioning system, and began working with Tabitha to explore options to cover the cost of a new unit. The process was long - during the winter, Mary heated her house with electric heaters, which became expensive. In the summer, temperatures in her house climbed to 86 degrees.

Mary and Tabitha ran into barrier after barrier - because she removed the old unit, she was unable to qualify for replacement grants. Though they kept hearing “no”, Tabitha reassured Mary another door would open. “It was so discouraging, but she never gave up,” Mary shared. Finally, after months of work, Tabitha was able to find a grant through our friends at ChoiceOne Bank that would allow Mary to fully replace her HVAC system! As part of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis, our local ChoiceOne Bank has the opportunity to give out homeownership and home improvement grants. “This work is important because we care about the community we serve, and the more we assist the community, the healthier it will be” shared Ana Peña, Assistant Vice President of Community Development program Manager at ChoiceOne (and former Action House team member!).

We’re incredibly grateful for partners like ChoiceOne, and for the determination of our team members - when generosity & creative collaboration combine with our team’s expertise & commitment, our neighbors can achieve healthier, happier lives. Now, Mary is connected with our Savings Club, our Resource Navigation team, shops with us as a Food Club member, and shared that she can finally sleep through the night again. She and Tabitha will continue to work together until Mary feels equipped, confident, and hopeful about a healthy financial future.

*Name and photo changed for privacy

Outreach

Sarah has been working with our Outreach Team for several years. At a young age, Sarah began battling addiction, and found herself living in a car and without a stable home. When Sarah met our Outreach Specialist Shelley, she got connected to our team and a community of support at the Community Kitchen. Shelley and Sarah worked together to verify that she was experiencing homelessness (a critical step in securing access to other forms of support), then embarked on the complicated process of trying to find safe, stable housing. 

After the lengthy process of securing a housing voucher, Sarah was able to find her own home! Now living in a safe, stable place, Sarah is able to focus on progressing in her sobriety journey. Her ultimate goal is to bring her son home to her apartment and start a new life with him, while making a difference in the community. We’re celebrating alongside Sarah as she continues to take steps toward a happier, healthier future!

Community Kitchen

The Community Kitchen offers a gathering place for creating connections, and nourishing meals everyday. The Kitchen team works flexibly, creating menus that utilize the fresh, donated food we receive each week. The creativity of the team goes beyond cooking, but also collaborating on innovative ways to get more fresh produce. 

Regular volunteer, Brian, maintains a produce garden right outside the Community Kitchen during the summer! This started back when Chef Heidi found starter seeds at our Resale Store, and from there Brian and Heidi came up with the idea, with support from Western Theological Seminary, and starter plants donated from Eighth Day Farm, Brian and Chef Heidi were able to bring this idea to life, and can continue to plant a new Garden every summer! 

Food Club

One Monday night, a father and his young infant visited the Food Club for groceries. It was raining, and while he carried bags out to his car, another member offered to hold the baby for him. He seemed relieved, and she held and snuggled the baby happily while he loaded his groceries. It was a brief moment - but a simple reminder that over the years, Food Club has become more than a place for families to access food: it’s a growing community where neighbors care for one another. Across all of our programs, we work to provide a place for connection to resources, to solutions, and to each other. It’s a joy to see this in action!

In Case You Missed It

Affordable Housing Update!

We’re so grateful to share that our Affordable Housing Project received a key award from Michigan State Housing Development Authority! Learn more about the upcoming development! 

Electric Forest Collaboration!

Shoutout to our friends at Electric Forest! Their team organized a Camp Gear Donation program - minimizing waste left over after their event, and providing items like tents, sleeping bags, etc., for our outreach team!

WHTC Talk of The Town

Food Rescue Manager Aubree joined WHTC's Talk of The Town to share updates on our Lakeshore Food Rescue program! Listen in below.

Everyone deserves a safe home

June 28, the Supreme Court ruled that people experiencing homelessness can be arrested for sleeping in public spaces, even when no other shelter options are locally available. Read more about our commitment to pursuing solutions for our community.

Join The Movement

Volunteer

Volunteer time and talent powers our programs.

Champion

Host a Fundraiser or Donation Drive!

Give

Your support sustains and expands our service.

July '24 Lakeshore Food Rescue Update

Impact By The Numbers

June 2024

Pounds of food rescued - 314,622.10 lbs
Via LFR fleet and Food Rescue Hero

Pounds of food rescued at the Farmers Market - 6,505.5 lbs
Happening on every Saturday, since June 1, 2024

Pounds of food shared throughout our community- 182,177.00 lbs
Via LFR fleet and Food Rescue Hero

383.13 Tons of CO2eq* prevented from rescuing food
*includes transport to landfill, fugitive methane emissions, energy recovery offset, and landfill carbon storage

35 Food Rescue Drivers and 12 Farmers Market Volunteers
Rescued food through the Food Rescue Hero app or at the Market

135 Food Rescues Completed
Through the Food Rescue Hero app

Learn More About Food Rescue Volunteering!

Are you interested in learning more about Food Rescue volunteer opportunities with Action House? Join us for an in-person volunteer orientation. During orientation, you’ll learn how you can get involved and how you can help reduce food waste in our community!

Check Out The Food Rescue Hero App

Have you wondered what the Food Rescue Hero app is? And what it’s like to use it?

See what volunteers are saying about our Food Rescue Hero app!

‘Great first time experience. I really appreciate Joe showing me around the Community Action House Food pantry and food club. What an amazing program!’

‘So fun!’

‘Great instructions. No issues with the pickup.’

‘Went great. The food delivery recipient was pleased with the quality of the produce!’

Do you want to try the Food Rescue app or are you a volunteer in need of technical support? Check out the FRH App Technical Support resource on our Lakeshore Food Rescue webpage. Otherwise, please reach out to our team if your question is not there and we will work to answer it promptly!

Volunteer With Us at the Holland Farmers Market!

It’s summer time, which means our Holland Farmers Market is in full swing! As mentioned above, we’ve already received 6,505.5 lbs of food thanks to volunteers powering our market efforts! The farmers market is an essential part of our Lakeshore Food Rescue operations each summer, ensuring we’re capturing excess fresh, healthy produce that might otherwise go to waste, and making it available to those who need it most. We hope you’ll consider joining us as a volunteer this summer!

Join us as a gleaner! As a Volunteer Gleaner, you’ll help rescue produce that local farmers and vendors donate at the end of the Market. Collecting at the market wouldn’t be possible without volunteers powering gleaning each Saturday & we’re actively seeking volunteers to join this season’s Gleaning crew! 

Power our Produce Donation table! We provide a Produce Donation table on Wednesdays throughout the summer, powered by volunteers! As a volunteer, you’ll staff the booth, talk about Action House & LFR with interested individuals, accept and weigh produce donations, and clean up at the end of the day!

Please sign up to glean or collect produce with us this summer, or share the links above with your friends & family to help us spread the word. We’re thankful for our partnership with the Holland Farmers Market, and for the variety of opportunities to engage in the market throughout the summer. We’ll see you at the Market!

Want to get in contact with the Food Rescue Team?

Contact Joe (Food Rescue Coordinator & Volunteer Experience Champion) at jguzman@communityactionhouse.org

Oregon V. Johnson Supreme Court Decision

On June 28th 2024, the Supreme Court ruled in City of Grants Pass, Oregon v. Johnson that individuals experiencing homelessness can be arrested for sleeping in public spaces, even when no other shelter options are locally accessible. Across the country, this decision means that unhoused neighbors may face punishment simply because they don’t have a safe place to sleep at night.

We’re deeply concerned about what this means for so many unhoused people in different parts of the country. And at the same time, we’re grateful to be here in a community that knows that arrests and fines do not solve homelessness. Wherever housing is scarce and expensive, homelessness increases. Here in our community, our team sees first hand the increasing strains on so many of our neighbors, and recognizes just how urgently more housing options are needed. 

Jessica Pressley, Program Manager, Housing Access, reflects on the decision made by the Supreme Court:

“Our team is deeply saddened by the ruling made by the Supreme Court. We recognize that criminalization only perpetuates homelessness and it systematically can limit our unhoused neighbors' access to services, housing, and jobs, while damaging their health, safety, and well-being.  According to research, it can cost a community three times more to enforce anti-homeless laws than to find housing for people who don’t have it.   We will continue to educate on the complexities of homelessness and advocate for our neighbors, right here in Ottawa County and the City of Holland, who have so few options for housing in a market with such limited stock. Homelessness is a housing issue! Our work will continue and for our neighbors working to find sustainable housing. We will continue to bring forward the need for long term sustainable solutions to ending and preventing homelessness.”

We are more committed than ever to co-creating effective solutions to ensure that all of our neighbors can thrive. Everyone deserves a safe home, good food, and the opportunity to build a strong foundation for their family. And everyone needs a community that believes in them - their worth, their dignity, and their potential.

We’re grateful for partners in our community who know that housing availability and human-centered services are critical factors in addressing homelessness. Every person has inherent worth - this truth lies at the heart of all of our collaborative efforts, and drives our partners and our team to find a better way, together. If you’d like to learn more, read our Outreach team’s work at communtiyactionhouse.org/outreach or read about the Supreme Court decision from the National Alliance to End Homelessness.

June '24 Lakeshore Food Rescue Update

Impact By The Numbers

May 2024

Pounds of food rescued - 316,148.30 lbs
Via LFR fleet and Food Rescue Hero

Pounds of food shared- 187,783.50 lbs
Via LFR fleet and Food Rescue Hero

36.40 million gallons of water saved*
*water used in the growing process, saved from being wasted!

31 Volunteer Drivers
Picked up food rescues through the Food Rescue Hero app

151 Rescues Completed
Through Food Rescue Hero

Join Us At The Holland Farmers Market

It’s summer time, which means our Holland Farmers Market is in full swing! Our local market is home to over 70 vendors throughout the summer, featuring vast amounts of fresh produce, flowers, baked goods, cheese, eggs, jams, and much more! Lakeshore Food Rescue actively participates in the market in a variety of ways throughout the summer, powered by volunteers. We hope you’ll consider joining us!

We’re now actively gleaning at the Farmers Market, and we invite you to join us as a Volunteer Gleaner! As a Volunteer Gleaner, you’ll help collect produce that local farmers and vendors donate at the end of the Market. Gleaning is an essential part of our Lakeshore Food Rescue operations each summer, ensuring we’re capturing excess fresh, healthy produce that might otherwise go to waste, and making it available to those who need it most. This wouldn’t be possible without volunteers powering gleaning each Saturday & we’re actively seeking volunteers to join this season’s Gleaning crew! 

We also provide a Produce Donation table on Wednesdays throughout the summer, powered by volunteers! As a volunteer, you’ll staff the booth, talk about Action House & LFR with interested individuals, accept and weigh produce donations, and clean up at the end of the day!

Please sign up to glean or collect produce with us this summer, or share the links above with your friends & family to help us spread the word. We’re thankful for our partnership with the Holland Farmers Market, and for the variety of opportunities to engage in the market throughout the summer. We’ll see you at the Market!

Thank You, Inontime!

Our friends at Inontime Transportation & Warehousing have been incredible partners of our food rescue efforts! Each week, their team transports 15,000 - 16,000 pounds of food to our Food Club, and assists with our community’s Mobile Food Pantry.

Recently, Inontime generously lended their unused truck space on a return trip from Detroit to Holland to transport rescued food from the Detroit area. 

Partnerships like these are what make a lasting impact and our work possible - it takes a huge network of support to make sure our neighbors have the healthy food they deserve. Thank you, Inontime, for showing up for our community!

Food Rescue Hero Technical Support

For any Food Rescue volunteers in need of technical support, please feel welcome to  access our Food Rescue Hero App Technical Support on our Lakeshore Food Rescue webpage. Otherwise, please reach out to our team if your question is not there and we will work to answer it promptly. 

LFR Volunteer in need of help?

Are you an LFR volunteer and need to get in touch? Contact Joe at jguzman@communityactionhouse.org

May eNews: Foreclosure Prevention, Affordable Housing Updates, and Earth Day!

Program Updates

Financial Wellness

• • • • • •

Mary* and Bill* met Financial Wellness specialist, Tabitha, in the middle of a crisis. Having fallen behind on their mortgage, the couple’s home was scheduled for auction in three weeks. Mary and Bill had been told that there was “nothing that could be done.”

Tabitha wasn’t ready to accept that answer. Working as a partner and advocate, Tabitha contacted different agencies, finally reaching the HUD National Servicing Center who escalated their case and put Tabitha in contact with their loan servicer. Before the three weeks were up, Mary and Bill were able to secure a loan modification that allowed them to save their home!

Moving forward, Mary and Bill will meet with Tabitha to build a budget and pay off debt, learning financial skills and tools needed to achieve greater stability. We believe that all of our neighbors deserve a safe home, a network of support, and the opportunity to build a brighter future for their families. We’re grateful for a team that builds relationships, advocates for guests, and provides expertise and support on a brighter path forward!

*Names and photo changed for privacy

Outreach

• • • • • •

Meet Sean! Sean has been a Street Outreach Specialist on our team for a little over a year now, working directly with people experiencing homelessness.

Through the Outreach Team, Sean is able to offer low-barrier, high-dignity access to urgent needs while providing warm welcome, partnership, and support on each guest’s journey towards stability. Our team always celebrates when someone finally finds housing and a place to call their own - for Sean, seeing our neighbors happy, protected, and stable in their new homes makes all the difference in his work. Thanks Sean, for the care, compassion, and enthusiasm you bring to our team and our neighbors!

Community Kitchen

• • • • • •

April was Earth Month! At the Community Kitchen, our team hosted an event alongside guests to celebrate the earth and all of the beautiful fruits and veggies it produces. Guests chose and planted seeds for different indoor and outdoor plants, graciously donated by our partners at Eighth Day Farm. From flowers, to vegetables, to herbs, Community Kitchen patrons could create their own little home garden! 

We love seeing staff, guests, volunteers, and community members find shared joy in simple things like planting seeds. We’re grateful for the many hands at the Community Kitchen that help build a welcoming space for so many of our neighbors who need a space to rest, eat, and experience community.

Food Club

• • • • • •

Our Healthy@Home programming helps guests learn about healthy eating habits, nutrition, and offers cooking classes at our onsite Demonstration Kitchen! Guests can learn how to use new-to-them foods, cooking techniques to help manage health conditions, and sharpen their skills to make it easier to eat healthy at home. Our Healthy@Home Coordinator, Anna, recently hosted a “Kids In The Kitchen class”! Her daughter joined as sous-chef and helped demonstrate how to make chicken quesadillas. 

Healthy food builds the foundation for future health and happiness. For children, good nutrition is critical for development, and fostering healthy habits early on sets them up for success. We love that Healthy@Home teaches community members, of all ages, the knowledge and skills they need to nourish their bodies and minds.

Save The Date

Join us for Holland's Hunger Awareness Weekend!

Saturday, May 18- Sunday, May 19

• • • • • •

This month, two national events take place in Holland to support local food access. Action House is grateful to receive both direct food donations and financial support from these events, and we invite you to participate!

  • The Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive, Saturday, May 18, is led by the National Association of Letter Carriers. Place nonperishable items in your mailbox before 9am on May 18, and postal workers, along with volunteers, will collect the items to distribute to local food access organizations!

  • The Annual CROP Hunger Walk, Sunday, May 19, is a nationwide movement sponsored by Church World Services (CWS) to raise funds to end hunger and poverty in the U.S. and around the world. Join us at Centennial Park from 1-3pm as a walker, to drop off food donations, or to learn more about local nonprofits working to improve food access! Learn more here.

Join us at The After Party! Thursday June 13th

• • • • • •

Join us for the second annual After Party! The 2024 After Party, presented by Bradford Company, is a fun, colorful fundraising event that raises support for our programs to nourish, equip and empower our neighbors. This outdoor summer party includes food and drink, live music, fun activities (including a Celebrity Art Battle!), Live Auction and more! Tickets are $100 and include appetizers, roaming dinner, dessert and 2 drink tickets!

In Case You Missed It

Affordable Housing Project Update!

We’re so grateful to share that our Affordable Housing Project recently received a key award from Michigan State Housing Development Authority! Learn more about the upcoming development!

Tax credit approved for Holland affordable housing project

We are excited to announce that last week, our partnership with Dwelling Place received a key award! Learn more about this upcoming development from our friends at The Holland Sentinel!

Listen in on WHTC's Talk of the Town

Krista Burgett and Aubree Carlisle of Lakeshore Food Rescue joined WHTC's Talk of the Town to speak on the growing program and food rescue efforts throughout The Lakeshore. Tune in to learn more!

Our 2023 Annual Report!

We're grateful to share our 2023 Annual Report. Read more about our impact last year!

Join The Movement

Volunteer

Volunteer time and talent powers our programs.

Champion

Host a Fundraiser or Donation Drive!

Give

Your support sustains and expands our service.

Affordable Housing Update!

Big news! Our efforts to bring more affordable housing to Holland just took a huge step forward. Last week, our partnership with Dwelling Place received a key award from MSHDA (Michigan State Housing Development Authority)! With this critically important LIHTC funding confirmed, we’re able to fully embark on next steps for our Affordable Housing Development, which will bring 52 high quality, affordable, and accessible housing units to our community. Groundbreaking is anticipated sometime this winter, and we can’t wait. 

"As we planned our 2021 move to our new Food Club & Opportunity Hub, we strategized on the best use of our former service headquarters at 345 W 14th Street. With guidance from Housing Next and in collaboration with our partners at the City of Holland, we dreamed of using our parcel to catalyze a larger mixed-income, affordable housing development, to play our part in addressing the critical housing shortage that impacts so many of our neighbors. We’re incredibly grateful to see this project move forward, and for the health & stability it will make possible for families in our community.” - Scott Rumpsa, Action House CEO

Read more about the new development by visiting WoodT8

Read more about the new development by visiting The Holland Sentinel

Read more about the new development by visiting The Lakeshore WM

Meet our Vice President of Development, Renee!

Renee Rivard is a dedicated educator and community advocate with a passion for fostering positive change. Holding a Bachelor of Science in Biology & Psychology and working professionally in the development field for twenty years, Renee brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her new role as Vice President of Development at Community Action House in Holland, MI.

Beginning with a strong foundation in secondary education and community outreach, Renee spent several years developing and implementing programs aimed at reducing food insecurity and providing essential services to youth and marginalized populations. Her early work with families provided her with deep insights into the systemic barriers that perpetuate poverty and social inequity. With a background in teaching, Renee is adept at communicating complex ideas and inspiring others to action. Her commitment to empowering individuals and strengthening communities has been evident throughout her career.

Moving into fundraising and development was a natural progression for Renee, driven by the realization of how critical sustained funding is for nonprofit success. At Community Action House, she uses her understanding of community dynamics and needs to effectively engage with donors and stakeholders. This aspect of her role involves advocating for the resources that allow the organization to maintain and expand its programs. By cultivating meaningful relationships, Renee helps ensure that Community Action House has the support needed to continue its mission of nourishing, equipping, and empowering the community. This work not only meets the organization's financial objectives but also bolsters its community-driven approach, encouraging widespread involvement in their shared goals.

In her free time, Renee enjoys cooking & collecting Polish Pottery, outdoor adventures, and time with her golden retriever, Dutch. She is deeply committed to the ongoing success of Community Action House.

Celebrating our Volunteers: Compassion in Action!

April is National Volunteer Month! We are what our community chooses to do together, and none of our work would be possible without volunteers. We are so grateful for the time, support, and hard work from our selfless group of volunteers. Whether you joined as an individual, or “adopted” a Food Club or Community Kitchen shift as a corporate or church team, you power our work. Thank you!

Meet Sharon!

Sharon has volunteered with us since may of 2021! She was doing food rescue at 14th street and when they transitioned to Food Club she heard they needed guest services volunteers, and was able to be trained with our staff members. Overall she loves getting to know the guests and seeing them every week. Although it is not easy, she truly enjoys helping them work through the intake process, and hearing their personal stories; the stories gives a sense that what she is doing is truly making a difference. Sharon loves our mission and feels that she is truly part of the whole organization. She knew she wanted to volunteer her time after retiring and found a great fit here!

Meet Dave!

Dave has been volunteering at the Community Kitchen for almost 3 years! He began his volunteer journey as part of a group through an adult program, but recently began joining us two times each week on his own. Dave loves to work, and is really proud to be a Community Action House volunteer. One of Dave’s favorite volunteer moments was when he got to celebrate his birthday with the team and guests! Another volunteer played the song ‘Birthday’ by the Beatles, they turned down the lights, and celebrated with him. Dave said that continues to show up because he loves the food, everyone treats him with respect, and the atmosphere is great!

Meet Sandy!

In 2017, our Community Kitchen operated out of First United Methodist Church (FUMC). When Sandy moved to Holland that year, she quickly learned about our work after becoming a member at the church! When her women’s group volunteered at the Resale Store, Sandy was hooked - she quickly signed up to volunteer on her own, and has been part of our team for the past five years. Her main tasks include sorting through and straightening clothing, preparing items for the sales floor, or prepping items to help stock the clothing closet at our Refresh program! Sandy shared that she continues to volunteer because the staff make her feel welcomed and appreciated - the team works together, is full of gratitude, and is accommodating for everyone. If someone asked her why they should volunteer with us, it would be because the work at the Resale Store is critical to supporting our mission at Community Action House. Thank you, Sandy, for being part of the team!

Meet Vicki!

Vicki started volunteering for us in January of 2021. She moved from the old site to here, and was mesmerized by the space and the size, but notices how we are already outgrowing it! She thinks the Food Club is a beautiful concept and loves how there is a level of respect given to the guests. She also mentioned how she believes that they deserve to walk into a store and see beautiful displays, so she works to make our produce look pretty. The concept of having a choice is great too, there are many cultural set backs that come from traditional food pantry and we are able to give them autonomy. Vicki said that volunteering here brings her Joy, it makes her happy knowing that this impacts so many people that need it. Although she does not get to meet the guests, knowing and visualizing how many people are helped every day is amazing.

Meet Holly!

Meet Holly! Holly has been a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Volunteer for three years, and her wife is a volunteer at our Resale Store! She learned about Community Action House through another VITA Volunteer, and realized that she wanted to get involved. Holly lovesvolunteering with us because it gives her an opportunity to make a difference in someone’s life. She truly enjoys spending time with other volunteers and with guests. Holly shared about a volunteer moment that sticks with her - during VITA, she worked with a guest who had never filed for a homestead property tax credit. Together, they were able to file for the last three years, and unlock significant financial support for our guest! Thank you, Holly, for your hard work to support our neighbors through VITA!

Interested in becoming a volunteer? Learn more about the various roles available below!


March eNews

Program Updates

Financial Wellness
• • • • • •

It’s VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) season! Each year, a team of highly trained and dedicated volunteers works alongside our Financial Wellness team to offer free tax preparation assistance for qualifying neighbors. 

Our volunteers recently helped a young man who was struggling to make ends meet. He has sole custody of his son, and was not going to file because he thought he didn’t make enough money, and that finding assistance would be too expensive. Our team helped him claim significant credits that he did not know were available, and his refund was over $3,000!

In our third year as a VITA site, we’ve already served 49 households, and helped bring $480,957 in tax refunds back to our neighbors! Before the season ends, our team is preparing to assist 350-360 more families with their tax returns.

Outreach
• • • • • •

Happy Birthday Refresh! On February 21st we celebrated the fifth anniversary of Refresh Hygiene and Hope! In partnership with First United Methodist Church, Refresh provides a warm and welcoming space where neighbors experiencing homelessness can take a shower and receive haircuts, meals, mail service, clothing, and resource navigation services. 

In its five years, Refresh has grown and adjusted its services to provide more and more direct support for our unhoused neighbors - finding ways to fill in the gaps so that those experiencing homelessness have access to the critical resources and support they need to build stability. To our Refresh volunteers, community partners, and guests, thank you for building a space where all of our neighbors belong!

Community Kitchen
• • • • • •

In February, we celebrated “Heartfest” at the Community Kitchen! As a way to build community and celebrate Valentine’s day alongside our guests, we asked people “What are you grateful for?” and “How have you shown love recently?”

One guest shared that they’re grateful for “water, air, home, family, kids, and the [Community] Kitchen” - a reminder for our team that it’s easy to take the essentials for granted, but that for many of our guests, dignified access to basic needs hasn’t always been a given. We’re grateful for the Kitchen, where struggle doesn’t equal stigma, and where neighbors can find welcoming access to the critical resources that they need to move forward.

Food Club
• • • • • •

Last month, our friends at Jehovah Jireh in Hudsonville received beautiful, locally grown spinach from a farmer, but had more than they could use themselves. They contacted our Lakeshore Food Rescue team, and we were quickly able to pick up pallets, transport them to our own warehouse, and take some to our partners at Hungry for Christ!

Here at Food Club, members were able to choose the fresh spinach for 0 points! Our team member Laura was stocking produce when a guest shared that she had never tried spinach before, but because it was available at Food Club, was going to try it for the first time that night. They chatted about different ways to cook it, and the guest decided to add it to the pasta she planned to make for dinner that evening. We love when community generosity combines with our model of service to create new opportunities for our guests - from trying new-to-them foods to expanding their healthy eating!

Save-The-Date

Meijer Simply Give is Back!

Through our partners at the Holland Northside Meijer, your donation to the Meijer Simply Give campaign can help provide direct food access for our neighbors. Donate online by visiting, https://communityactionhouse.app.neoncrm.com/forms/meijersimplygive

International Women's Day Collecting personal care items on March 8th! 

At Food Club guests find not just fresh, healthy food, but also access to essential personal care items. Community donations help keep items like toilet paper, shampoo, conditioner, feminine hygiene products, and toothpaste available for members.

This Friday is International Women’s Day - if you’re looking for a way to provide direct support for women in our community, consider hosting a drive or collecting items to help us keep our shelves stocked with personal care items! When members visit us and find dignified access to essential items alongside resource connection, financial education, and a community of support, it helps them build a brighter future. Learn more at communityactionhouse.org/stocktheshelves!

In Case You Missed It

Alliance to End Hunger - A Holistic Approach to Food Access in West Michigan

Last fall, we had the pleasure of meeting our friends from the Alliance to End Hunger! We loved giving their team a tour of Food Club and sharing about our unique mode of service. Read their reflections on their visit and learn more about the Alliance to End Hunger by visiting the link below!

West Coast Way February Feature

Our friends at the Michigan West Coast Chamber of Commerce highlighted our program Lakeshore Food Rescue in their February edition of The West Coast Way magazine!

Holland partnership celebrates five years combatting homelessness

Alongside our partners at First United Methodist Church of Holland, we celebrated five years of dignified, welcoming service for our neighbors experiencing homelessness. You can read more about the partnership and anniversary below!

Community Action House Update Feb. 14

Assistant Director of Food Access, Chara Bouma-Prediger, appeared on WHTC to share about Food Club and our food access efforts. Listen to the full segment below!

Volunteer

Volunteer time and talent powers our programs.

Donate Monthly

Provide a stable foundation for our service each month.

Apply

Use your skills to make a difference.

2024 Black History Month Resale Takeover

Last month we celebrated black history month. A time to honor the achievements of so many Black leaders, creatives, and professionals.

We partnered with Women of Color Give! If you don’t yet know about their work to elevate and empower the BIPOC community, and provide a space for Women of Color to support the causes that matter most to them, we encourage you to visit their website at wocgive.org. 

Like so many of you, we’ve witnessed traumatic events across the country that continue to challenge us to reexamine our work and take bolder steps to build a more just, inclusive community. It’s been said that Black History Month is a time to “reflect on the shared experience of all Black Americans, whose lives have shaped, challenged, and ultimately strengthened America.” As we reflect, we also can use this time as an opportunity to recommit to a vision of a world without division or deprivation. For our part, we know our role begins with our values, and our commitment to welcoming, serving, and empowering all who call on us. To creating special places of belonging in our community, for those who need it most.

 
 

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