New facility expected to combine local food pantries; details to be released Wednesday.

By Rob Alway, Editor-in-Chief.

LUDINGTON — Plans are underway to develop a centralized food pantry in Mason County. On Wednesday a press conference is planned to announce the creation of Lakeshore Resource Network, an effort that is being led by United Way of Mason County and the Pennies from Heaven Foundation.

The LRN will be located in the former Lakeshore Lumber Company building, located at 920 E. Tinkham Ave. It is being promoted as a “one pantry system” and a combination of other area food pantries, most of which are located at area churches.

The LRN would employ a full-time director and would also have traditional business hours. The building would serve as a resource center that would provide services beyond food distribution. It would also provide safe and affordable housing assistance, utility assistance, volunteer and mentoring services. It would also provide employment training for individuals who are underemployed and unemployed; home ownership and home repair training and financial management and literacy training.

The building is expected to serve as an emergency relief center with shower and laundry facilities.

Community organizations that are potentially part of the LRN would include the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, American Red Cross, United Way of Mason County, TrueNorth Community Services and Habitat for Humanity.

The press conference will begin at 10 a.m. at 920 E. Tinkham Ave.