As an extension of the third pillar of our Islamic faith, the East Paris Community Food Pantry is committed to serving the general community by providing need-based food assistance in addition to county-wide resource referrals. Prophet Muhammad (SAW)) said, “Protect yourself from hell-fire even by giving a piece of date as charity.” (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)
The personal sacrifice of giving one’s possessions, no matter how small, for the sake of helping those in need is a blessing and a means of purifying our souls and wealth. Following the perfect example of our Prophet (SAW), the East Paris Community Food Pantry began serving the surrounding community in June 2012. Partnering with ACCESS of West Michigan and Feeding America, our aim is to provide healthy non-perishable food to those who are in need, regardless of their faith, ethnicity, etc. All the work is done voluntarily and anyone can participate towards this cause. Please note the following guidelines for Food Pantry distribution: Food pantry is open on the 1st and 3rd Saturday of each month from 10 AM – 12 Noon Clients must be living in the Kentwood neighborhood surrounding our food pantry or are a member of our masjid. Annual income should be within the range of 200% of the poverty level or less, with exceptions cleared through pantry Head of Household must bring IDs for all members of the household to their first visit and annually thereafter.
Donations:
WE ONLY ACCEPT non-perishable unopened food items that do not require refrigeration.
Some examples of acceptable donation:
- Canned fruits and vegetables
- Canned beans
- Canned tuna
- Canned tomato sauce
- Canned soups
- Boxed cereals
- Boxed dry pasta
- Small bags of rice
- Shelf-stable juice bottles