Love in Action expands services with GHACF grant

Love in Action (LIA) is expanding its services to meet growing food insecurity in Northwest Ottawa County, with help from a $125,000 grant from the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation (GHACF).

Over the past two years, LIA’s food distribution volume has increased by more than 50%, surpassing its current capacity. To support this growth, a new facility with 8,500 square feet of warehouse space will replace its existing Donation Processing Center on Fulton Street, offering nearly double the space for storing and distributing essential items. 

The updated design will also optimize operation and enhance services for donors, volunteers, and community members, while continuing to be a centralized and accessible resource.

“The Foundation recognizes the valuable efforts of Love in Action to address increased food insecurity within the community,” says Holly Cole, vice president of grants & program at GHACF. “The new LIA Storehouse will provide care and security to our neighbors, and we couldn’t be more pleased to support their efforts.”

Courtesy of Love in ActionOver the past two years, LIA’s food distribution volume has increased by more than 50%, surpassing its current capacity.

The new facility aims to enhance both the quality and quantity of food offerings. Key features will include a no-cost client “store,” improved food distribution and refrigeration capabilities, dedicated spaces for donation processing and loading docks, and expanded opportunities for volunteer engagement. 

“This expansion comes at a critical time, as needs in our community continue to rise,” says Josh Bytwerk, executive director at Love in Action. “We are deeply grateful to the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation for their generous support of this crucial project, enabling us to better serve our neighbors.” 

The funding is part of $232,000 in grants from the foundation to several organizations, including: 

Samaritas – Spring Lake Housing Community Navigation Services ($57,000)

Funding will support navigational services for residents of a diverse, new, affordable housing community in Spring Lake in an effort to address challenges to housing stability.. These services will guide residents in finding answers to childcare, education, transportation, employment, health care, and other needs.

Community Foundation for Muskegon County — Food, Agriculture, Research, and Manufacturing (FARM) manager ($50,000)

This grant will support the FARM manager, who focuses on expanding student engagement in food processing education and career pathways, supporting minority and women entrepreneurs, and increasing the use of locally sourced food in schools and institutions in the region.