INSIDE

Lori Moore Cookbook Sale Run for KLF at Gazelle Sports KLF Set to Move to New Facility Annual Campaign Continues Thank You Temple Bnai Israel Thank You to Faith Donors DECEMBER 2011

Whats New:
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THE FUTURE OF FOOD SECURITY...

Kalamazoo Loaves & Fishes will mark thirty years of community service in 2012. In that time we have come to recognize the basic nature of emergency food relief. We know that food securityregular access to enough food for an active, healthy lifeis essential for us all. And we know about the lasting consequences of food insecurity both for individuals and for the community. Today there is enormous national focus on addressing the debt crisis. That attention is important and so too are the decisions we make about how to address this nations basic social safety net programs. A newsletter recently received from a Texas food bank pictures a beautiful three-yearold girl and asks, What is her future ten years from now? We know the national budget and the future of childhood hunger are intricately related. So what kind of a difference are we making today? Why do we need your support to keep these efforts going? And what is the future of the three-year-olds here in this community who, like their Texas counterparts, live in households where economic insecurity is a daily reality? I am proud to say that Kalamazoo Loaves & Fishes is making a difference today through our multiple efforts to get food into the hands of hungry people. We are serving people who, like us all, seek to be contributing members of this community but are struggling, often through no fault of their own, to make it through these tough times. As we plan the move to our new facility at the corner of Portage and Jackson Streets, we recommit ourselves and our organizational energy to this important work. The facility brings exciting opportunities: expanded refrigeration and food storage space and a more visible location where we can focus attention on our goal of a hunger-free community. It also allows us to examine our practices for opportunities for improvement. We will continue to need your input and your supportperhaps more than ever as together we work to ensure the simple justice that everyone has enough to eat. We recognize that this work alone is not enough. In the weeks ahead, this country will be facing tough economic choices. I urge you to take an active role in the discussions ahead and to recognize the need for government and the charitable sector to partner in this work. In ten years, our toddlers will be teenagers. Food security now, and every day until then, is critical to their health and development. We are part of the puzzle that ensures food security for local kids. Together we can!

Meijers Simply Give campaign runs until Jan. 7. Pick up a donation card at the checkout at the W. Main, S. Westnedge, or Gull Road stores

Get your holiday tree this year from the Stauffers farm for just a donation to KLF. See our website for details

KLF MOVES TO NEW FACILITY: VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

alamazoo Loaves & Fishes new facility is nearing completion with an expected move-in date by 2012. We will need volunteer assistance to help us move within the next month. Duties will include loading the truck with food and other items, transporting them to the new facility and unloading them. Volunteers must be able to lift heavy objects and any experience with warehouse equipment is a plus. If youre interested in helping, call Laura Winther at 488-2617 ext. 209 or email at laura@kzoolf.org. During this transition process, business will remain as usualdonations will still be accepted and we will continue to provide service. Stay connected to us through our website, Facebook, Twitter, by phone AND through our new mobile phone app available at www.kzoolf.org.

The new warehouse is nearly three times the size of the warehouse on Alcott Street.

Annual Campaign Continues!

Together We Can make a difference in the lives of many in Kalamazoo Countyand together we already are. Our goal for this year is set at $230,000 and donations have already started coming in. These important dollars will go towards Kalamazoo Loaves & Fishes operational expenses, including the purchase of emergency food. To support this campaign, visit www.kzoolf.org to give online or send your donation in with the phrase Together We Can noted on it.

LOCAL SUPPORT FOR MICHIGAN HARVEST GATHERING HELPS MANY

Dozens of local businesses and individuals supported this years statewide Michigan Harvest Gathering food and fund collection by donating to Kalamazoo Loaves & Fishes. Participating groups included Bronson Healthcare Group (pictured above), Borgess Health, Secretary of State offices, Kalamazoo Department of Corrections, Two Men and a Truck, Charter Communications, and more. Statewide goals were $750,000 and 300,000 lbs. of food to be collected from Sept. 14Nov. 10. At the time of printing, over $25,000 and 6,000 lbs. of food had been donated to KLF. Final collection totals will be posted on our website soon. Thank you to all the businesses, groups, and individuals who supported this statewide effort to feed our hungry neighbors and friends.

10 YEARS OF POTLUCK PALS BENEFITTING THE COMMUNITY

Its the tenth anniversary of WKZO radio personality, Lori Moores, infamous Potluck Pals cookbook sale! The theme this year is centered around budget-friendly recipes that are easy to make and still so delicious. Every recipe in Loris cookbook can be prepared for under $10. This makes them accessible to even more people who may not have a lot of money to spend on preparing homecooked meals. Per usual, every cookbook sale date benefits a local human service agency, like Kalamazoo Loaves & Fishes. Whats different about this year, is that every agency benefitting from the cookbook sales is a local hunger relief organization. Dont miss your chance to get this years edition and to support KLF at the same time. Below are the dates and locations of sales that will benefit Kalamazoo Loaves & Fishes.

- Nov. 28, 3-5 pm, Hardings Friendly Market, 6330 S. Westnedge Ave. - Dec. 1, 11 am-1 pm, Hardings Friendly Market, 8900 Gull Rd. - Dec. 9, 3-5 pm, University Roadhouse, 1332 W. Michigan Ave. - Dec. 13, 11 am-1 pm, Hardings Friendly Market, 412 Howard St. - Dec. 16, 11 am-1 pm, Hardings Friendly Market, 5161 W. Main St.
Sale dates and locations are also posted on our website, www.kzoolf.org. Well see you at the sale! Lori Moore as Bo Derek in the movie 10

RUN FOR KLF AT GAZELLE SPORTS

Gazelle Sports and the Kalamazoo Area Runners will once again host the Run Through the Lights 5k run/walk through downtown Kalamazoo. In place of a registration fee, please bring a non-perishable food item to donate to KLF. During last years run, 1,500 lbs. of food was collected to support our programming. This years run is scheduled for Dec. 1 at 6:30 pm, with the starting point at Gazelle Sports, 214 S. Kalamazoo Mall. You can sign up ahead of time online at www.gazellesports.com/RTTL. Check the link or stop in the store for information on fun contests theyll be holding that night. And dont forget your food donation for KLF! Gazelle Sports supports Kalamazoo Loaves & Fishes in a variety of ways all throughout the year, including for the past two years during the October Art Hop. Gazelle Sports has served as a site on the Art Hop route where Kalamazoo Loaves & Fishes Warehouse Director

Gazelle Sports also serves as an Art Hop site for KLF Warehouse Director, Marvin Kings, photographs Marvin Kings photographs have been on display. This year, Marvin showcased his photographs, calendars, and notecards and donated a portion of the proceeds to KLF, with a matching donation made by Gazelle Sports and Strategic Solutions. Thanks, Gazelle Sports staff and customers, for your generosity to this community.

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Calling all volunteers

Interested in helping out? Spread the word about KLF by becoming a knowledgeable volunteer. If you like to be social, organized, and throw fun events, you could be our next Party Planner! VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION DATES: Saturday, December 10 Wednesday, December 14 Thursday, January 12 Saturday, January 14 Sign up with our Volunteer Coordinator, Laura Winther: 269/488-2617, ext. 209 laura@kzoolf.org

TEMPLE BNAI ISRAEL: 15 YEARS OF GIVING

Local faith organization, Temple Bnai Israel, has been supporting Kalamazoo Loaves & Fishes for over 15 years through their generous donations. Since 1996, theyve donated over 10,000 lbs. of food to KLF. During the Jewish holiday of Yom Kippur, Temple members donate as part of their High Holy Day Hunger Project where they try to demonstrate a concrete act of kindness within the community. Our participation with Loaves and Fishes means a lot to our congregation, said member Robin Pollens. Thank you, members of Temple Bnai Israel, for your ongoing support of our mission to feed hungry people.

SAY HAPPY BIRTHDAY WITH A FOOD DONATION

Its not every kid who asks for food donations to a local charitable organization over presents for their birthday, but for the Dunning family its a normal thing. All three Dunning childrenDeclan Jack, age 3; Lauren Grace, age 6; Catherine Ann, age 7donate food to Kalamazoo Loaves & Fishes on their birthdays. Most recently was Laurens birthday, which she celebrated with a donation of 25 lbs. of food. Thank you, Dunning family, for your selfless acts of kindness every year.

Temple Bnai Israel members (from left) Cantor Larry Charson, Nora Chaus, Sarah Bertman, Samuel Peters, Layla Marvin, and Robin Pollens.

FOOD WISH LIST

December: January:
Macaroni & cheese Canned fruit & vegetables Foods high in protein (7 grams or more) are always needed in our warehouse.

KLF December GivinG coupon

DECEMBER 2011 COUPON #101
AMOUNT $ _______________ The holidays can be very difficult for many in our community who arent able to feed their families. Can you help? Please send your contribution by December 23.

KLF January GivinG coupon

JANUARY 2012 COUPON #102
AMOUNT $ _______________ A new year brings new possibilities. Proper food can help prepare a family for success. Your gift can make the difference. Please send your contribution by January 27.

THANK YOU TO LOCAL FAITH ORGANIZATIONS FOR SUPPORTING KLF

In every edition of the Food for Thought newsletter, Kalamazoo Loaves & Fishes categorically recognizes some of our recent supporters. Community members ranging from individuals, to faith organizations, to local businesses, and everyone in between donate to Kalamazoo Loaves & Fishes in real and meaningful ways, and we want to take the time to say thank you. Local faith organizations give to Kalamazoo Loaves & Fishes in food, funds, and time on a consistent basis. These are the faith organizations that gave between 7/1/2010 and 6/30/2011 for a cumulative donation of $75,972 and 31,041 lbs. of food.

Faith Organizations
Agape Christian Church Allen Chapel AME Church Almena United Methodist Church Bethany Reformed Church Bethel Baptist Church Bethlehem Baptist Church Calvary Bible Church Cedar Creek Community Church Centre Avenue Community Church of God Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) Church of God - Family Worship Center Community of Christ Church Community Orthodox Presbyterian Church Comstock Christian Reformed Church Comstock Church of Christ Congregation of Moses Cooper Congregational Church Diocese of Kalamazoo Widows & Widowers First Baptist Church First Congregational Church First Presbyterian Church First United Methodist Church Fourth Reformed Church Grace Christian Reformed Church Greenwood Reformed Church Gull Lake United Methodist Church Heritage Christian Reformed Church Hope Reformed Church Immanuel Christian Reformed Church Immanuel Lutheran Church Latvian Evangelical Lutheran Church Lift Him Up Gospel Ministries Lighthouse Community Church Live Life Church Lord of Life Lutheran Church Lutheran Church of The Savior Midwifery Arts Milwood Christian Reformed Church Milwood United Methodist Church New Apostolic Church North Park Reformed Church North Presbyterian Church

North Westnedge Church of Christ Northeastern Baptist Church Northern Heights Christian Reformed Church Oakwood Bible Church Oshtemo United Methodist Church Oshtemo United Methodist Women Parchment Christian Reformed Church Parchment United Methodist Church Parish Church of Christ The King Cathedral Peoples Church Phoenix Community Church Portage Chapel Hill United Methodist Church Portage First United Methodist Church Portage Free Methodist Church Portage United Church of Christ Prairie Edge Christian Reformed Church Presbyterian Women Prince of Peace Lutheran Church Schoolcraft United Methodist Church Second Christian Reformed Church Second Reformed Church Skyridge Church of the Brethren Southern Heights Christian Reformed Church St. Andrews Community Church St. Barnabas Episcopal Church St. Joseph Church St. Lukes Episcopal Church St. Lukes Thrift Shop St. Martin of Tours Episcopal Church St. Marys Catholic Church St. Marys Mens Club St. Ritas Guild - St. John Bosco Parish St. Thomas More Catholic Student Parish St. Timothy Episcopal Church Sunnyside United Methodist Church Temple Bnai Israel Third Christian Reformed Church Thrivent Financial For Lutherans Kalamazoo County Chapter Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church Trinity Reformed Church

Unitarian Universalist Community Church Unity Church of Kalamazoo Valley Family Church Victory Baptist Church Westminster Presbyterian Church Westwood Christian Reformed Church Westwood Church of God Westwood United Methodist Church

Does Your Employer Offer Matching Gifts?

Many local employers have matching gift programs where theyll make a donation that matches all or a portion of your gift to Kalamazoo Loaves & Fishes. Visit www.kzoolf.org for a list of participating local businesses or contact your Human Resources representative for more information.

No More Food Bank Tax Credit

As of Dec. 31, the Michigan Food Bank Tax Credit will no longer be available to those who contribute to Kalamazoo Loaves & Fishes. Your donations are still greatly needed though. Speak to your financial representative to find out how to make giving work best for you.

Thank you to these local faith organizations for your support. Your spirit of giving creates a community where neighbors really do help each other. In the February Food for Thought newsletter, well include our 2010/2011 Annual Report. Please contact us if you believe your faith organization was wrongfully omitted from this list. Thank you.

For more information on how to best support Kalamazoo Loaves & Fishes through a gift, contact Jon Riccio, donor database coordinator, at 488-2617 ext. 206 or jon@kzoolf.org. Please let us know if youd like your name removed from our mailing list.

NONPROFIT ORG. US POSTAGE PAID KALAMAZOO MI PERMIT NO. 1693

913 EAST ALCOTT STREET KALAMAZOO, MICHIGAN 49001-3853 FOOD REQUEST LINE: 269/343-3669 P 269/488-2617 F 269/343-3669 WWW.KZOOLF.ORG

Kalamazoo Loaves & Fishes will feed hungry people and engage our community in the fight to end hunger.

Our Mission

Our Values
Compassion Respect Justice Integrity Advocacy

TRIBUTES 9/1/2011 10/31/2011 Special thanks to those who honor friends and family through contributions to KLF.
Dr. & Mrs. Kim Eagle Jim & Michelle Harvey & Naomi Spivak DiAnn Birmele Hannelore Ecks Marquardt Dr. & Mrs. James Dr. Paul F. Bonjours Richard Anson birthday Alan & Rhonda Stanley family members Richard & Lori Barnes Tom Edge Messinger Ginny Stapleton Patrecia Breen David Batts Angela Erdmans Dr. & Mrs. David Milko Nicholas & Tessa Len Bridge Marilyn Betts birthday Jerry & Susan Miller Stauffer Patricia Brown retirement Edward Fleece Michael & Sue Nave Mike & Janet Sydlaske Bruce L. Burrows John & Leora Bowden Chandler & Brenda Terry & Gail Nelson Margaret Sydlaske Robert Cleland James Bylsmas Garrison Frank & Sandy Newman John & Carol Trittschuh David A. Collins birthday Jim & Linda Gregart Steve & Constance United States Military Tom Crooks Gary & Bev Clays 50th Lisa Hackbarth Nitsch Julio J. Usera Phyllis Deal Jesse & Mollie Clement Rosalie Halpert Tyler & Jen Norman Sandra VandenBergs Leo Dean Gay Colbys retirement Brad & Autumn Hearon President Obama birthday Garold & Evalyn Bob & Jean Coxs Eileen Holaday Joel & Florence Orosz Dr. & Mrs. Rhada Bunny DeForest 50th wedding Susan Holeman Carl & Linda Orringer Vemuri Wesley Deming anniversary Bobby Hopewells Ms. Melanie Perry Steve & Debbie Weston Andy DeVolder Walter & Sherry Davis birthday Dr. & Mrs. Jai Prasad Frank & Bobbie Willis Larry Dooley Michael & Nancy Deeb Bob & Marie Humphries Rich & Heather Provost Tom & Paula Wuori Terry Duggan Susan Dennis Dr. & Mrs. Azzam Becky & Rick Ramseys WMU Human Herman Dykema Tom Dent & Suzy Kanaan birthdays Resources Robert Eager, Sr. Vandenberg Dent Rob & Donna Kellers Steve & Kathy Rhodes Lisa Yoakum Evan Ebling Robert & Christine birthdays Cheryl Rodbards Chuck Erickson Desjardins marriage Colleen Kinson birthday IN MEMORY OF Richard Evans, Sr. recommitment Sally Kowalisyn Scott & Bonnie Mary Fenechs Bob, Sarah & Shelby Martin & Sidsel Loeffler Sawusch Robert P. Amrhein deceased family Dimond Linda Lohns birthday Vic Siemers Harold Bahlke members James Dyke Lisa Lutz Dave & Jill Sluyter Jennifer Beam Jerald Finnegan IN HONOR OF Frank Fullam Chuck Maltby Joani Siwik Joseph Ghahramani, Sr. Denise Martin Ilze I. Smidchens Richard Goodwin Sean McCanns father Robert Stafford Mrs. Helen Graham Jeffrey Mehring John Steurer Tom Harding Michael Messer Bud Stimson Jim & Pat Hart Kathy Mizeur Doug & Marie Renauld George Hawley Tove Moon Stone Berne Jacobs Matthew C. Morgan Dan Strung Loring Janes Earl Mueller, Jr. Jacob Stucki Dick Jiran Gary Myerson Donald Swanson Barbara Jorae Donna Nichols Jim Swanson Marguerite Kolb Egon Nithammer Paul & June Tackaberry Bastian & Marie Jamie Oorbeck Richard Dick W. Kruithof Thomas Oorbeck Tanner Bob La Paint Frank Ossiff, Jr. Kim Underdah Minette Halpern Laba Chip Passavant Robert Van Streain, Sr. Joan LaFreniere Clara Maxine Patterson Terry Van Streain Lance Lambert Gerald L. Pochyla David Vergon, Sr. Helen Lance Carol J. Quiring Nicolaas Visser Harold Lanphear Sarah Van Streain Rantz Roon Visser Pat Larsen Rosie Refior Diane Vorenkamp Robert Lee James Reish John Waber Carol Leesons father Jessica Renauld Carole Walsh Violet May Lotz Oswald & Alvina Shirley Walter Maxine Louden Renauld Diane Witteveen Linda Renauld Lutz Nancy Ruelas Gene Zimmer Colleen Magnan Betsy Schumann Elnora Zischke Mary Hutchins, Warehouse Coordinator Jennifer Johnson, Public Relations & Development Director Deb Josephson, Services Coordinator Marvin King, Warehouse Director Anne Wend Lipsey, Executive Director Ruth Matteson, Call Center Lead Jon Riccio, Donor Database Coordinator Kimberly Schoetzow, Communications Coordinator Carolyn Tyler, Operations Coordinator Laura Winther, Volunteer Coordinator 211 213 214 211 208 201 206 218 212 209

Board of Directors
Patricia Carlin Bob Ezelle Bruce Gelbaugh Alan Harbaugh Mike Henderson Lynn Jessel Cheryl Knapp Robert Lohrmann Elizabeth Makohn Harvey Myers Helen Norris Maija Petersons Stacey Randolph Martha Simpson Jan Tiderington

Staff / Business Office

269/488-2617 Joan Atwell, Call Center Lead Art Cole, Services Director Pat Early, Warehouse Assistant George Geissel, Bookkeeper Kathy Gernaat, Operations Director Dave Hafer, Warehouse Assistant Phyllis Hepp, Organizational Development Director EXT. 201 207 211 212 212 211 210