In a month that should be centered on gratitude and gathering, our country finds itself in a government shutdown. Budgets are frozen, vital programs are stopped, and paychecks are delayed. Some big political standoffs can seem abstract all the way up here in our peninsula, but when you see your neighbor struggling, a debate in Washington feels real.
Our home up here might be beautiful but it is not immune to hardship. Behind the postcard views and vineyard sunsets are people balancing part-time jobs, seasonal pay, and long commutes to work. Statistically, one in six Michiganders face food insecurity and many rely on SNAP benefits to make it through winter months when hours get cut and tourists disappear.
If there’s one thing Leelanau does well, it’s showing up for one another when systems fall short. Local food pantries are seeing an increase in need already and some small businesses are stepping up. Nine Bean Rows is offering free bread to anyone that asks, Leelanau Christian Neighbors has been going above and beyond to stock their food pantry, and The Folded Leaf partnered with 5Loaves2Fish to ensure food access in their town.
