COLDWATER, MI )WTVB) – The Branch Area Food Pantry says their 2025 Holiday Food Box distribution on Saturday was a huge success, providing over 1,200 boxes to families in need all across Branch County.
The event, held at the pantry’s location on Pierson Street, aimed to ensure local families have a complete holiday meal for both Thanksgiving and Christmas, a need that pantry director Patty Daoud says increased significantly this year.
Daoud said there was an uptick in people seeking assistance, a trend observed across many food banks this holiday season.
It’s estimated there is a 30% rise in food insecurity in the county in 2025 compared to last year.
The community’s response was overwhelming , with donations from individuals, local businesses, churches, and other organizations helping to meet the need. Key corporate partners, including Meijer, Clemens Food Group, and Aunt Millie’s Bakery, contributed essential items like turkeys, hams, and dinner rolls.
Just days before the event, the Coldwater Knights of Columbus Council 2900 presented a $2,500 donation to support the effort.
This year, the pantry expected the total cost for the holiday baskets to exceed $40,000, underscoring the financial pressure on food assistance programs.
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