Love. Feed. Connect.

Mission 

Facilitate a network of resources to strengthen individuals and families in our community by helping to meet immediate needs and accessing opportunities for lasting solutions.

Vision 

Be a leader in community partnerships to build bridges that guide individuals to self-sufficiency. Love - Feed - Connect

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What is a Food Club Model?

The food club offers a grocery store experience and requires households to purchase a 30 day membership for $10. Points are given to members based on the number of individuals in the household. Points spend like cash in the food club and items are labeled with their point values. Membership allows households to visit as often as they choose within that membership period until all points are used. 

Members can wander through the supermarket-style set-up and personally select their desired items. Options for fresh fruit and fresh vegetables are available on a consistent basis. Healthier items, such as fresh produce, have lower point values than pre-packaged snack foods. The membership point system, consumer choice, and incentivized healthy options provides practice with budgeting and promotes healthy choices. Assistance with budgeting and shopping are available upon request. 

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This model is based on a similar program located in Grand Rapids, MI.  http://www.communityfoodclubgr.org/ 

​The Lakeshore Food Club in Ludington, MI and the Community Food Clubs in Grand Rapids, MI are partners in promoting food security, consumer choice and dignity for low-income member households.

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Who is eligible to be a member?

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Any Mason County household earning 200% of the Federal Poverty Level or below is eligible to become a member of the Lakeshore Food Club. Households are classified as a single person or a group living as one unit. For example, a husband and wife, domestic partners, or parents and children would be covered under the same membership. 

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What is the membership application process?

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• Complete a Membership Application (A new application is required every 12 months)

• Provide photo ID 

• Provide proof of address or connection to Mason County, such as a utility bill or business mail dated within 30 days, or proof of Mason County employment or student enrollment

• Pay 30-Day Membership Dues of $10 per household at the Food Club (Cash only; we cannot accept other forms of payment). The membership fee must be paid for every 30 days a member wishes to shop.

• As part of the membership agreement, members will complete a short survey at the first and sixth months of membership.

The membership fee covers a 30-day period. Members can pre-pay for the next month. However, households cannot purchase 2 memberships to apply to the same month, or "double up" points. Unused points do not roll into the next 30 days. If a member runs out of points, no new points can be issued until the next month. 

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Minors under 18 without a parent or guardian can be referred by a school counselor or Mason County Family Link team member. Membership requirements will be waived.