At North Kent Connect, we believe where you live shouldn’t determine what you have access to.
That’s why we created Fresh Connect, our mobile food pantry that brings fresh produce, pantry staples, and caring connections directly into communities across northern Kent County.
Fresh Connect is an extension of North Kent Connect’s mission to improve the lives of all people by providing access to basic needs and promoting economic independence. By visiting trusted community locations, we’re making it easier for individuals and families to access healthy food and connect with additional resources that can help them thrive.
Why Fresh Connect?
Fresh Connect was born from a simple truth: where you are shouldn’t determine what you have access to.
We’re working toward a future where fresh, healthy food is accessible throughout northern Kent County. While providing nutritious food has always been an important part of what we offer at North Kent Connect, we know that transportation and distance can make it difficult for some families to visit our Resource Center.
Instead of waiting for neighbors to come to us, we’re bringing fresh food directly into the community.
Who We Serve
Fresh Connect is designed for neighbors who need it most, including:
- Families balancing tight budgets
- Seniors with limited transportation
- Rural residents with fewer nearby resources
- Families who have not yet connected with North Kent Connect
Whether you’re visiting us for the first time or you’ve been part of the NKC family for years, you are always welcome at Fresh Connect.
What You’ll Find
Each Fresh Connect stop offers more than fresh food.
Visitors can expect:
- Fresh produce and pantry staples
- Friendly staff ready to answer questions
- Information about North Kent Connect services, including:
- Housing assistance
- Utility assistance
- One-on-one case management
- Employment and job services
- Other community resources
Fresh Connect is about meeting neighbors where they are—with healthy food, helpful resources, and caring connections.
Where to Find Fresh Connect
We’re excited to partner with local organizations that are trusted, welcoming, and easy to access within the communities we serve.
Tuesday, July 28
3:30–5:00 p.m.
Conklin Head Start
3501 Sehler St. #9701
Conklin, MI 49403
Tuesday, August 4
3:30–5:00 p.m.
Conklin Head Start
3501 Sehler St. #9701
Conklin, MI 49403
Tuesday, August 11
11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
Kent District Library – Nelson Township Branch
88 Bass Lake Road
Sand Lake, MI 49343
Tuesday, August 18
11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.
Kent District Library – Spencer Township Branch
14960 Meddler Ave. NE
Gowen, MI 49326
Tuesday, August 25
12:00–2:00 p.m.
Kent District Library – Tyrone Township Branch
43 S. Main St.
Kent City, MI 49330
Dates, times, and locations are subject to change. Please check this page for the latest schedule.
Powered by Community
Fresh Connect exists because of something powerful:
Neighbors helping neighbors.
This initiative was made possible through the generosity of The River City Foundation, Corewell Health’s Healthier Communities, and the Cook Foundation, whose investment is helping bring fresh food and essential resources directly into neighborhoods throughout northern Kent County.
We’re also grateful to Plainsong Farm for providing fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables and to our community partners, including the Kent District Library and Conklin Head Start, for welcoming Fresh Connect into their communities.
Together, we’re helping ensure that every neighbor has greater access to healthy food, compassionate support, and the resources they need to thrive.
Visit Fresh Connect
Whether you need fresh food, want to learn more about North Kent Connect’s services, or simply have questions, we’d love to meet you.
Fresh Connect is neighbors helping neighbors… in motion.
For more information, call 616-866-3478 or visit North Kent Connect.
