Hundreds Attend Food Gatherers Fundraiser

Hundreds of people from throughout southeast Michigan poured into the Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds near Saline on Sunday for the 22nd annual Grillin’ for Food Gatherers dinner fundraiser.

The annual meal is the largest fundraiser for the nonprofit food bank and food rescue program, which distributes food to 150 nonprofit organizations serving low-income adults, seniors and children in Washtenaw County.

“The need for food assistance is ongoing, especially now with school out for the summer and children off of federal subsidized lunch programs,” said Mary Schlitt, director of development for Food Gatherers.

Tickets, which cost $50, guaranteed patrons a meal of barbecued chicken, sausage, side dishes and ice cream donated by local organizations.

“All of the food is donated, so we can really say the money goes to help fight hunger,” Schlitt said.

Schlitt said the sale of each $50 ticket will provide 140 meals for people in need.

Last year, 1,800 people attended the event, raising more than $180,000, she said.

Kara Bloom of Dexter, who has worked at Food Gatherers for the past eight years, said she is always amazed by attendance at the fundraiser.

“Some people make it a family tradition to come out and have a picnic every year,” she said. “Seeing all the support makes me proud to work for Food Gatherers.”

Paul Saginaw, the founder of Food Gatherers, agreed.

“It’s different every year, and it’s better every year," he said. "It’s always a thrill to put on the grilling event. It’s Ann Arbor’s best picnic, and I’m always blown away by the power of the community.”

Barbara and Greg Humble of Ann Arbor said they have attended the fundraiser every year for the past six years.

“We try to pick five charities every year to support, and we always end up supporting Food Gatherers because we think its mission is so important,” Barbara Humble said. “We learn something new every time we come.”

U.S. Rep. John Dingell (D-15th District), said nonprofit organizations such as Food Gatherers are essential to help Michigan’s struggling economy.

“As long as there are hungry folks, there will be a need for food banks,” Dingell said. “I try to support them both personally and legislatively. These types of organizations are a very important solution to the problem of global hunger in our country.”

Local businesses contributing to the event included Casey's Tavern, Exotic Cuisine and Bakeries, Grange Kitchen & Bar, The Quarter Bistro and Tavern and Zingerman's Bakery and Creamery. Children's activities were provided by the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum.