Michigan Ag Connection - Farmer-Owned Co-op Donates Milk and Cheese to Food Banks

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Farmer-Owned Co-op Donates Milk and Cheese to Food Banks
Michigan Ag Connection - 03/19/2019

Food banks across the state of Michigan will receive a new batch of milk and cheese this year, thanks to a dairy cooperative and processor, the Michigan Milk Producers Association (MMPA). MMPA celebrated its partnership with the Food Bank Council of Michigan (FBCM) with a Valued Partner award presented today in Lansing, Michigan during MMPA's annual meeting.

"Our partnership with the Food Bank Council of Michigan began in 2015 and has resulted in thousands of families in Michigan receiving fresh milk--one of the most requested and nutrient rich food bank items," Ken Nobis, MMPA president and dairy farmer said.

During the award presentation, MMPA announced a donation of 150 gallons of milk and 50 pounds of cheese per day for an entire year to the FBCM. The Kroger Company of Michigan is donating the processing and packaging of the milk at their Michigan dairy plant in Livonia. The cheese comes from MMPA's subsidiary brand, Heritage Ridge Creamery, based in Middlebury, Ind.

"We are grateful for the council's hunger relief efforts in helping our neighbors," Nobis said. "Today, we honor the organization with our Valued Partner award and look forward to our continued partnership with another donation in 2019."

Food banks need fresh food like milk and cheese to support Michigan residents, one of seven of which struggle with hunger. FBCM is made up of member regional food banks in the state of Michigan. Through their distribution network, the donated dairy products will reach all 83 counties of Michigan.

"Partnerships are the key to ending food insecurity in Michigan," said Phil Knight, executive director of the Food Bank Council of Michigan. "MMPA and its members are one of our most valued partners. Their significant contributions of fresh, wholesome milk is vital, especially for our children."

The announcements were made at MMPA's 103rd Annual Meeting in Lansingn. Approximately 400 dairy farmer members and guests gathered at the meeting today to discuss the current dairy industry, recognize members, adopt policy resolutions and elect board members.

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