Senior Pantry Program

Our Senior Pantry program is designed to be a safe place for independent seniors to source nutritious food for a small suggested donation. Eligible seniors can shop one of two ways and up to twice per month for the groceries they need. It’s a wonderful resource that supports healthy, independent aging in our senior community.

How It Works

Step 1: Register

Kent County seniors who are 60 and older can register for the Senior Pantry Program by showing a photo ID and proof of income. Call (616) 459-3111 (select option 3) for income qualifications.

Step 2: Shop

Eligible seniors can shop one of two ways and up to twice per month for the groceries they need.

  • Option 1: Shop up to two times every month for $50-60 worth of groceries (40-50 lbs.) each trip
  • Option 2: Shop once per month for $100-120 worth of groceries (80-100 lbs.) in one trip

Step 3: Donate

Each senior who shops at a Senior Pantry is asked to donate a suggested amount of $3 per visit.

Step 4: Enjoy!

Seniors can take their groceries home and prepare healthy, nutritious food as they usually do for just a suggested donation amount!

Special Thanks to Kent County Senior Millage

Meals on Wheels Western Michigan has been able to provide our Senior Pantry program since 2000 thanks to funding from the Kent County Senior Millage.

Location Information

Our Kent County Senior Pantry also offers additional senior services and referrals. Ask for more details while you’re there or call (616) 459-3111 (select option 3) for more information.

Grand Rapids NE

Monday: 11:00 am–4:30 pm

Tuesday: 9:30 am–2:30 pm

Wednesday: 9:30 am–2:30 pm

Thursday: 9:30 am–2:30 pm 

Friday: 8:30 am–1:30 pm

Senior Pantry FAQs

About Senior Pantry Eligibility

How do I qualify for the Senior Pantry Program?

To qualify for our Senior Pantry Program, seniors must meet the following requirements:

  1. They must be 60 or older.
  2. They must live in Kent County.
  3. Their income must be lower than 200% of current poverty guidelines.
How much does it cost to shop at the Senior Pantry?
If a senior meets the eligibility requirements, they can shop for a suggested donation of $3 per visit. All donations are used to provide additional groceries and help us serve those who need us. Like with all of our programs, MOWWM will never turn away an eligible senior if they can’t donate.
How can I donate if I’m able to?

You can donate to the Senior Pantry program when you visit. We accept donations in cash. You can click here to access our client portal.

You’re also welcome to mail a check to our office at:
Meals on Wheels Western Michigan
2900 Wilson Ave. SW
Suite 500
Grandville, MI 49418

Donations can also be made over the phone by calling us at (616) 459-3111.

Can I still shop at the Senior Pantry if I can’t afford to donate?

Yes! We’ll never stop providing our services if you can’t afford to donate. Remember, we operate on a “give what you can, when you can, if you can” basis. We encourage all Senior Pantry shoppers to continue to visit our locations if the program is helpful for them, even if they aren’t able to donate.

About Shopping

What kind of groceries are available at the Senior Pantry?

Groceries vary based on availability and seasonality. However, the pantry always supplies options from each food group—grains, fruits, vegetables, and proteins. Common items found at the Senior Pantry include:

  • Bread
  • Grains (cereal, oats, rice)
  • Spaghetti and pasta
  • Fresh, frozen, and canned fruit
  • Fresh, frozen, and canned vegetables
  • Canned and frozen meats
  • Dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt, etc.)
  • Personal care items (toilet paper, dish soap, etc.)
Can I choose which groceries I’d like to take home?

Yes! We are a choice pantry that utilizes MyPlate to provide a nutritional shopping experience. We have a wide variety of items to choose from, including grains, dairy, protein, fresh fruits and vegetables, and personal care items.

Do I need to bring my own bags?

Yes, please bring your own bags.

What should I do if I need help loading my vehicle or carrying my groceries home?

Let us know at the pantry! We typically have staff and volunteers readily available to help carry groceries out to your vehicle.