In Michigan, about 1 in 7 residents receive SNAP benefits. In the rural counties served by 211 Northeast Michigan, that number is often even higher, with as many as 15–20% of households relying on this essential support. In our region, that amounts to around 200,000 people who will be affected. When benefits are delayed, the impact is immediate, putting additional strain on local food pantries, community meal programs, and family budgets.
That’s where 211 comes in.
Our trained specialists are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to connect you with free, local food resources — including food pantries, community meal programs, emergency food boxes, and senior meal deliveries. If you or someone you know is struggling to put food on the table, please don’t wait.
- Call 2-1-1
- Text your ZIP code to 898-211
- Visit this page to search for currently available food options in your area
If you’re in a position to help others, 211 can also connect you with local pantries and nonprofits that need food donations, volunteers, or financial support to meet rising demand. Whether you need help or want to give help, 211 is here for both.
To make it even easier, 211 Northeast Michigan has created half-page flyers that can be shared in community centers, churches, libraries, and workplaces to spread the word about food support and donation options during the shutdown. These flyers are available to download on our website or by request.
Together, we can make sure no one in Northeast Michigan goes hungry — not during a shutdown, and not ever.