Goodrich- For Debbie Bresler and Julie Quinnell, Angel Food Ministries has proved to be a blessing.
The monthly food program, open to everyone regardless of income, offers a variety of meats, fruits, vegetables, desserts and more at prices well below grocery retail. Goodrich United Methodist Church, 8071 S. State Road, began taking orders for the program in May and is the local distributor.
For Bresler, an Atlas Township resident, purchasing frozen meats and fresh produce at prices she says are up to 50 percent off what she would pay at the supermarket has been a saving grace since her husband has been out of work for the past 10 months.
‘It’s really good quality food,? she said. ‘It’s a real blessing for our family and a blessing for a lot of other people, too. We look forward to this every month, it’s really keeping us going.?
Quinnell, of Brandon Township, was attracted to the program for the 5-pound allergen-free box of food that is on the menu every month with different items, since her two young daughters have celiac disease and must have gluten-free food.
‘They have chicken nuggets and steak fries and pancake mix that is allergen-free,? noted Quinnell of the program. ‘My eldest said the chicken is better than what she remembers McDonald’s tasting. It is really good stuff and the allergen-free food is so much cheaper through Angel Food.?
Julie Kaminski is the coordinator for Angel Food Ministries at GUMC. The church is the only host site for the nationwide program in Goodrich and Ortonville.
‘We started it here to help the community stretch their food budget,? said Kaminski. ‘We felt there was a need. There is a big misconception that this program is linked to income and for the needy only. That is not the case? it’s open to anyone.?
Angel Food Ministries orders in bulk and has no overhead from having stores, so is able to offer food at deep discounts. Some of the food that has been offered have been name brands, said Kaminski, including pies from Schwan’s, lemon cake from Starbucks, Dole brand potatoes, and Nestle Tollhouse cookies.
Kaminski has placed her own orders several times.
‘I like the convenience of it,? she said. ‘I don’t have to go to the store. It’s really made a difference in my food budget. I’m not spending as much at the grocery store.?
A new menu is published every month and orders are taken through the cut-off date. Food distribution is always the last Saturday of the month. Orders can be placed in person at the church from 5-6 p.m., Wednesdays, or 10:30 a.m.-11 a.m. Sundays. Details: 810-636-2908 or 810-287-1697. See the monthly menu at www.goodrichumc.org.