Nonprofit Spotlight: Macomb Food Program
For fifty years, the Macomb Food Program has worked to fight against hunger throughout Macomb County. The organization was established in 1975 by local church leaders who recognized the growing need for food assistance. Originally named the Macomb Emergency Food Program, it has since evolved into a countywide initiative dedicated to feeding the hungry in Macomb County.
Today, the Macomb Food Program operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that works in partnership with Macomb County to fund and support food distribution efforts across a network of more than 50 food pantries. The County manages the warehouse and coordinates food distribution through its Community Food Bank, while the Macomb Food Program provides critical funding to fill gaps not covered by federal or state programs. In 2024 alone, the organization contributed $150,000 to support food distribution efforts across the county.
In addition to supporting local pantries, the Macomb Food Program has expanded its reach to address the needs of vulnerable populations, including students facing food insecurity. Through its Homeless Student Project, the organization partners with the Macomb Intermediate School District (MISD) to provide food gift cards to students identified as homeless, distributing 1,500 cards last year and planning to expand the initiative again this year. The program also distributes thousands of ready-to-eat food bags annually for individuals experiencing homelessness or lacking kitchen access, with support from Huntington Bank and local volunteers.
The need for food assistance in Macomb County has grown significantly in recent years. The Macomb Food Program supports the Community Food Bank’s pantry network, which has served 150,000 households and 400,000 individuals in the past year — a 70% increase since 2021. Despite these challenges, the organization continues to thrive thanks to dedicated community volunteers, strong partnerships and a passionate board of directors.
“Every donation stays right here in Macomb County,” said board member Ken DeBeaussaert. “We’re a Macomb organization feeding Macomb families. When people give to the Macomb Food Program, they’re helping their neighbors and making a direct impact in their community.”
The organization’s holiday appeal, which runs from mid-November through January, is one of its most important fundraising efforts. Every dollar raised goes directly toward purchasing food for those in need.
The Macomb Food Program is also an active participant in countywide initiatives such as the Letter Carriers’ Stamp Out Hunger® Food Drive, which provides a large portion of the food distributed to pantries each year.
Recently, the Macomb Food Program received a grant through Advancing Macomb’s Capacity Building Grant Program. The program was launched earlier this year in partnership with The Huntington National Bank to strengthen small and growing nonprofits serving low- to moderate-income communities in Macomb County. The grant will support a communications overhaul for the Macomb Food Program, including website improvements and social media updates, helping the organization strengthen its visibility and outreach.
The Macomb Food program also regularly participates in Advancing Macomb’s Nonprofit Roundtable series.
“Advancing Macomb has been incredibly helpful,” said DeBeaussaert. “Their networking opportunities and best-practice sessions have helped us tell our story more effectively and connect with new supporters.”
Looking ahead, the organization’s goals include launching its new website, increasing board diversity and community representation, and expanding outreach efforts to engage new donors, volunteers and partners across the county.
“We’re proud of our long history and consistent support,” DeBeaussaert added. “We don’t take it for granted. Our mission is simple — to feed the hungry in Macomb County — and we’re committed to doing that for as long as we’re needed.”
To learn more about the Macomb Food Program or to get involved, visit macombfoodprogram.org.
