The Howell Food Pantry, a vital lifeline to many residents in need, could face empty shelves without donations. 

According to Feeding America, a national hunger-relief organization, the COVID-19 pandemic has put over 54 million people at risk of “food insecurity in 2020, including a potential 18 million children.” In turn, food pantries are finding it difficult to keep up with the massively increased demand from their communities.

The Howell Food Pantry is struggling, too. “When COVID-19 hit, six other pantries in the area did not reopen, leaving Howell Food Pantry to do the work and have the capacity of seven organizations. They are stretched pretty thin, and would welcome donations and volunteers with a smile,” says Andre de Garmeaux, the owner of Highland Kennel and 2020 candidate for Howell Council.

De Garmeaux turned the Howell Kennell into a no-contact drop-off point for donations 7 days a week from 9:00am – 12 Noon. Donations can also be made at the Food Pantry on Monday’s only from 9:00am – 11am and also at the Howell Farmers Market on Sundays from 10:00am – 2pm.

Howell Food Pantry accepts non-perishable food items, such as canned goods and also monetary donations. They are located at 449 Adelphia Road in Howell. Residents should call them at 732-938-2368 to arrange a drop-off.