Thanksgiving Blessings Abound for Families in South Lyon as Active Faith Food Pantry Expands Services

Thanksgiving Blessings for South Lyon Families

South Lyon is buzzing with excitement this holiday season, as the Active Faith food pantry has *gone above and beyond* to ensure that families in need are ready to celebrate Thanksgiving with all the trimmings. Nearly 170 families flocked to the pantry to pick up turkeys, sides, and everything else needed for a festive feast. It’s a heartwarming sight, especially with the recent move to a new and improved facility on 553 S. Lafayette St., which opened its doors just in time for the holiday hustle and bustle.

Gratitude in Abundance

The staff and families utilizing Active Faith couldn’t help but feel a wave of gratitude wash over them as they prepared for Thanksgiving. “I can’t talk without being emotional,” said Sharon Sower, the executive director of Active Faith. “This was a vision that took three years, and this town did it. People who need help are not embarrassed to come to a nice facility.” This statement resonates deeply, as the food pantry has long been a lifeline for low-income families in the South Lyon School District for over 37 years.

For the last two decades, the pantry operated out of a cramped 3,700-square-foot warehouse on Washington Street. However, as the demand for assistance continued to grow, it became clear that a new, larger space was crucial. The newly acquired building, once known as Alexander’s Polish American Restaurant, spans 7,200 square feet and was purchased with an $840,000 grant from the state of Michigan, alongside ongoing community fundraising efforts that raised an impressive $450,000 for renovations.

A Place for Everyone

The revamped Active Faith facility now boasts spacious offices for its staff, including Sower and four part-time employees, a multi-purpose room, and a clothing “closet” designed more like a store, allowing clients to select apparel for job interviews or casual wear. There’s also plenty of food storage, and the *highlight of the pantry* is its layout that resembles a grocery store. Clients can choose from a wide array of non-perishable goods, fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy products.

What sets Active Faith apart is their “free choice” pantry concept. Clients are empowered to select their groceries rather than receiving a pre-packaged box. They can visit the pantry every Monday during food distribution, with some folks coming just once or twice a month. When customers first walked into the new space, many were rendered speechless, while others were moved to tears. One individual even asked, “All this for us?”

Beyond Food Assistance

Sharon Sower emphasizes that the mission of Active Faith is to help individuals see beyond their current situations. Many clients, including children, seniors on fixed incomes, veterans, and adults with disabilities, often feel trapped in their circumstances. “We want them to know they are not stuck. We’ll help you think outside your current circumstances because you’re worthy,” Sower stated.

One such client is 69-year-old Karen McDonald, a Wixom resident who has been coming to the Active Faith pantry twice a month after facing health-related retirement. “They are always kind, respectful, and welcoming,” McDonald reflected. “I can get food that is healthy and nutritious, and they don’t make me feel bad. It’s great we can come here. I am grateful.”

Another visitor, 55-year-old Andrea Lane from South Lyon, shared her experience of how Active Faith has supported her during tough times, especially after her partner lost his job during the pandemic. “It’s beyond words,” Lane expressed, praising the many ways the organization has provided help, including repairing their only vehicle’s brakes and assisting them with mortgage payments.

Spreading Holiday Cheer

As the staff at Active Faith gear up for the upcoming Christmas season, they are also preparing to help Santa deliver gifts to over 100 children ranging from newborns to 17 years old. It’s a time of giving and sharing love, and the community is rallying to make this holiday special for those in need.

If you’re looking to spread some holiday cheer or if you find yourself in need of assistance, feel free to check out what Active Faith has to offer!