On Monday, November 14, Gleaners Community Food Bank of Southeastern Michigan will match every cash donation, in effect doubling donations received through midnight. Every dollar donated provides three meals for a hungry person; today, that dollar will provide six meals.
Hunger in the Metro Detroit Area
Nearly 500,000 people in Southeastern Michigan receive emergency food assistance each year, according to a 2010 report by Gleaners Good Bank and Forgotten Harvest. Only 19 percent of those are homeless, and 34 percent of households receiving assistance include at least one employed adult. Children comprise 39 percent of the households, while the elderly represent seven percent. A majority of households are also receiving some form of government food aid as well; 77 percent have incomes below the federal poverty level.
About Gleaners Food Bank
Founded in 1977 by Gene Gonya, Gleaners was one of the first food banks in the United States. Gleaners receives food donations from multiple sources -- merchants, manufacturers, farmers, food drives, community donations, other organizations, and some bulk purchases -- and repackages and distributes the food to 400 local food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, and other partners.
Tax Benefits
As a 501(c)3 organization, donations to Gleaners are tax-deductible on the federal return for those who itemize deductions. In addition, Michigan offers a 50 percent credit on state taxes for donations to food banks and homeless shelters, up to $200 ($100 credit) for single filers and $400 ($200 credit) for those married filing jointly.
For More Information
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