KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — A local non-profit organization is rolling out new practices to protect the safety of both staff and visitors.
Kalamazoo Loaves and Fishes normally allows visitors to browse items at its walk-in food pantry. Now with the COVID-19 pandemic growing in the community, the location is instead offering a curbside pick-up program to maintain social distancing.
Pre-boxed and prepackaged food will be available to visitors outside the building at 901 Portage Street in Kalamazoo. The organization says that people can pick-up at least four-days’ worth of food for every member of their household.
Those interested in using the program are encouraged to schedule a pick-up time by calling Kalamazoo Loaves and Fishes at (269) 343-3663 from Monday through Friday. Calls will be received starting at 9 a.m. and visitors are asked to be patient if they do not hear back immediately, as the service is experiencing higher than normal requests.
Individuals unable to travel to the food pantry office can either have someone else pick it up on their behalf, or receive food from the mobile drop-off service.
Food pantries are considered essential services under Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s “Stay Home, Stay Safe” executive order. Kalamazoo Loaves and Fishes and other non-profits have seen a rise in visitors looking to use their food assistance programs during the COVID-19 outbreak.
The organization says that food pantry programs will continue to help those in need, though staff and volunteers are taking additional measures to protect against the spread of the illness.
Older staff and volunteers over the age of 60 are being asked to remain at home during the outbreak. Groups working at one time are being limited to prevent exposure, and incoming volunteers will be screened for potential symptoms of COVID-19.
