LCF Strengthens Local Food Support as SNAP Benefits Pause

Lenawee Community Foundation Strengthens Local Food Support as SNAP Benefits Pause; Community Partners Rally to Ensure Neighbors Don’t go Hungry

ADRIAN, Mich., Nov. 10, 2025

With the temporary pause in federal SNAP benefits causing concern for families across Michigan, the Lenawee Community Foundation (LCF) is reinforcing its commitment to strengthening Lenawee’s health, happiness, and hope by supporting immediate needs.

LCF will distribute $11,000 in annual grants this week to food pantries across Lenawee County. These funds help stock shelves and support emergency food distribution efforts for local families in need.

In addition, Hunters Helping Lenawee—a program of the Foundation—has already provided over 2,000 pounds of venison to local food pantries and meal programs this season, with more donations expected in the coming months. The program partners with local hunters and processors to turn donated deer into nutritious protein for neighbors across Lenawee County facing food insecurity. Donations to date are nearly 900 pounds higher than at this same time last year, reflecting the continued generosity of local hunters and the growing impact of this community-driven program.

“The Lenawee Community Foundation is standing beside our partners to help ensure no one in our community goes hungry,” said Bronna Kahle, LCF President & CEO. “While we haven’t yet received direct requests for additional support from food pantries or meal programs, we are staying proactive and connected with partners like the South Michigan Food Bank to be ready to respond if needs increase.”

In addition to supporting local food efforts, LCF also stepped in with a $10,000 match grant for Share the Warmth, helping to fill an emergency funding gap so the shelter can keep its doors open during the cold winter months. This urgent match underscores LCF’s mission to bring health, happiness, and hope to Lenawee County—meeting immediate needs by responding to urgent needs and investing in community wellbeing.

LCF’s collaborative approach helps coordinate efforts across multiple programs and organizations, ensuring that resources reach where they are needed most. The Lenawee Community Foundation is stepping up to bridge gaps before they become crises, especially in times of uncertainty.

Community members who wish to help can contribute to Lenawee Cares or Hunters Helping Lenawee through the Foundation’s website at www.lenaweecf.com. Every donation to those two programs stays local and supports essential needs right here in Lenawee County.

“When challenges arise, our community steps up,” Kahle added. “Together, we’re ensuring that hope—and food—remain within reach for every neighbor.”

For more information on how to apply for a grant, start your own charitable fund, or make a gift to one of the existing funds at the Lenawee Community Foundation, visit lenaweecf.com.

About Lenawee Community Foundation:

The Lenawee Community Foundation is a charitable organization created by and for the community. By collecting donations and investing them for lasting impact, the Foundation funds grants, scholarships, and local initiatives to address community needs, support nonprofits, and enhance the wellbeing of Lenawee County. More than just an organization, the Lenawee Community Foundation is an opportunity for individuals, families, and businesses to leverage the power of collective giving to make sure their community stays strong and supported for years to come.

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For more information, please contact: Kirsten Stiver, (517) 263-4696, kirsten@lenaweecf.com.