Kampout for Kair Marks 12 Years of Supporting Neighbors in Need
Celebrating over a decade of filling kitchens, cupboards, bellies, and hearts in Kalkaska and Antrim Counties
For 12 years, hungry families and individuals in Kalkaska and Antrim Counties have relied on the support of Kalkaska Area Interfaith Resources (KAIR)—and once again, the agency is calling on the community to help stock its food pantry.
The annual Kampout for KAIR food drive returns October 6–11, inviting residents to step up in the fight against hunger as food prices remain high and supply chain challenges continue. Last year alone, the community donated an incredible 19,460 pounds of food, helping KAIR continue its mission of serving neighbors in need.
“This year, we’ve seen an increase in people who haven’t needed our services in years, now finding themselves struggling,” said KAIR Director Cathy Somes. “With gas and grocery prices so high, requests for food pantry services continue to rise. Each month, KAIR serves between 1,300–1,700 people through our pantry and our community meal program, Ladles of Love, which provides 400 hot meals each month—and growing. Community support is vital to ensure we can continue to meet these needs.”
Local businesses are once again rallying behind the effort. Serra Kalkaska Executive Manager Steve Gilman shared, “Serra Kalkaska is proud to participate in Kampout for KAIR for the twelfth year. Many families in our community are struggling to afford food and other essentials, and it’s crucial that we step up to help. This event gives us the chance to give back, and we’re grateful to support KAIR’s mission.”
How to Help:
• Food Donations: Accepted October 6 at 7:30 a.m. through October 11 at 6:00 p.m. at Serra Automotive in Kalkaska.
• Additional drop-off bins will be located at Family Fare, Northland Foods.
Family Fare and Northland Foods will also collect during normal store hours.
• Donations can also be brought to KAIR directly, Monday–Friday, 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
• Monetary Donations: Cash and check contributions will be accepted October 6–11 via secure containers at Family Fare, Northland Foods, and Serra Kalkaska. Checks should be made payable to KAIR. Donations may also be made securely online at www.kalkaskakairs.com.
KAIR is requesting a wide variety of non-perishable food and hygiene items, including peanut butter, canned meats, oatmeal, canned fruits and vegetables, dried fruits, pasta, soups, toilet paper, and toothpaste.
This year’s Kampout for KAIR is generously sponsored by Serra Kalkaska, Northland Foods, Family Fare, Meijer, and media partners KLT, WTCM, WTCM GOLD, WCCW, 105.7 THE BIRD, and Z93.
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