In partnership, the Barry Community Foundation and the Barry County United Way are pleased to offer non-profit organizations the opportunity to apply for emergency funding for food.  The Emergency Funding Grant for Food Programs has been created to assist our local organizations in continuing to operate as usual, or with an increase in requests, due to the SNAP benefit pause starting November 2025.

Lani Forbes, Executive Director of the Barry County United Way, says “this is a critical time in our community and we understand that many local households could be facing food insecurities in the next few weeks and possibility unforeseeable future.  Our goal is to support the amazing programs that are already happening around Barry County as they see an influx in requests for assistance.”

Grants may be applied for up to $10,000.  Organizations may apply anytime up until SNAP benefits are restored.  The grant dollars will be disbursed as a reimbursement upon receipt of expenditures.  Grant dollars are only allowed to be used on food purchases.

Organizations who are eligible to apply must meet the following criteria: have an IRS Not for profit status, have been in existence for 1 year, must serve Barry County residents, enrolled in the 211 information system (or become enrolled) and agree to report demographics of households served.

Forbes went on to say, “We are so thankful for the partnership with the Barry Community Foundation, especially during times of need like this.  Both organizations have local boards who recognize the needs of our community and continue to do what is best for all in Barry County. We could not do this work without everyone involved and certainly not without the local food pantries, initiatives, community meals and food programming happening across our county. Thank you to all involved.”

Further questions or to submit an application for funding are directed to Lani Forbes at 269-945.4010.

Anyone looking to donate to this fund can do so by mail or dropping it off to the Barry County United Way office at 231 S. Broadway, Hastings MI 49058.  You may also donate by using the Barry County United Way’s VENMO @barrycountyunitedway231