LATHRUP VILLAGE — The Arab American and Chaldean Council (ACC), a human services organization serving southeast Michigan, announced it recently received the 2013 Beacon of Light Award from the Food Bank Council of Michigan (FBCM) for its Pantry of Plenty Program.  The award was presented to the ACC at the FBCM’s Michigan Harvest Gathering Celebration Luncheon in East Lansing.  ACC was one of seven organizations in Michigan to receive the award.

FBCM is a statewide organization committed to alleviating hunger in Michigan and the U.S.  

In 1991, in partnership with Attorney General Bill Schutte and his wife Cynthia, Michigan Harvest Gathering was launched.  

This annual statewide campaign raises food and funds for Michigan’s emergency food response.  In its first 22 years, the campaign has produced more than 8.7 million pounds of food and raised nearly $8.6 million.  The theme of this year’s gathering was “Culture of Honor,” which recognized the efforts of many in Michigan who work tirelessly throughout the year to alleviate hunger. 

“We are honored to have received this award,” said Dr. Haifa Fakhouri, ACC President and CEO.  “There are so many in need, from children to the elderly, disabled and unemployed, so having the opportunity to provide fresh food to those who need assistance has been, and continues to be, a real privilege.”

Twice per month, the ACC, through its Pantry of Plenty Program, distributes nearly 30,000 pounds of food to area residents in need. 

Implemented in partnership with Forgotten Harvest, who nominated ACC for the award, the program distributes prepared and perishable foods, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, dairy products, meat and juices, to 350 families on each distribution day at the ACC’s Youth Center at 62 West Seven Mile Road in Detroit.   

The program runs on in-kind donations and support from the community and corporate volunteers.  Since December 2011, more than 3,000 families have enrolled in the program.