When SNAP Benefits End, One Grand Rapids Coffee Shop Starts Giving Back

When more than a million Michiganders learned they’d soon be losing access to their SNAP benefits, one local business owner decided he couldn’t just sit by and watch.

The Lantern Coffee Bar & Lounge, a downtown Grand Rapids favorite, is stepping up in a big way. The shop’s owner Jon announced on social media Wednesday night that it’s hosting a food and essentials drive for Feeding America West Michigan over the next week to help families struggling to make ends meet.

Jon said in a heartfelt social media post that he's never organized anything like this before, but after seeing the news, he felt called to do something.

Unfortunately, when he posted about it online, someone accused him of “just doing it for marketing.” But anyone who’s ever been inside The Lantern knows that couldn’t be further from the truth. Jon and his team have long been about community first, and this drive is proof.

If you’d like to help, The Lantern is collecting both food and personal care items for the next week. Here’s what they’re looking for:

Requested Food Donations:

• Ramen noodles
• Mac & cheese
• Canned dinners (like Spaghetti O’s)
• Pasta
• Jarred pasta sauce
• Instant potatoes
• Canned meat or vegetables
• Rice
• Soup

Requested Non-Food Donations:

• Feminine hygiene products
• Shampoo
• Conditioner
• Toothpaste
• Toilet paper

If you’ve ever wanted to give back (or just show some love to a business that truly cares) this is a great chance. Drop off donations at The Lantern Coffee Bar & Lounge in downtown Grand Rapids and help make sure no one in our community goes without.