The United Way of Southwest Michigan is planning to be out in the community volunteering for Martin Luther King Day on Monday. The United Way’s Julee Laurent told WSJM News on Friday they’re working with a variety of local non-profits, faith-based organizations, schools, and businesses to serve southwest Michigan in the spirit of the civil rights legend. Some planned projects include a food drive for area pantries.
“This whole past week, St. Joe High School, Upton Middle School, Lakeshore High School, and Niles High School have all been running food drives,” Laurent said. “Those end today and they’ll be bringing the food here today and Monday. We’re doing all of the sorting and delivering to area soup kitchens and area food pantries.”
Meanwhile, the students at the Boys and Girls Club of Benton Harbor will set out in their neighborhood shoveling snow and salting walks for seniors. Also, staff at the Department of Health and Human Services in Berrien County will be packing 100 literacy kits to be given to the children they serve and the United Way will be collecting new socks and underwear for kids in foster care. The big day of service is possible thanks to a grant from the Corporation for National and Community Service. Anyone who wants to get involved can contact the United Way of Southwest Michigan. You can reach them at 269-982-1700.
