BATTLE CREEK, — A non-profit aiming to fight hunger was forced to temporally close due to a lack of funding.
On Tuesday,God’s Kitchen – Battle Creek announced the decision was made back in May to suspend operations for the month of July.
“Our soup kitchen can’t afford to hire staff,” said Pastor William Stein, board chairman. “Therefore, citizens should refrain from making false accusations about our operations. If God’s Kitchen – Battle Creek had reached our annual operating budget of $150,000, we would contribute to the tax base of this community.”
God’s Kitchen – Battle Creek first opened in October 2011, according to a press release from Pastor Stein. The organization has served more than 102,000 meals to low-income people. They also deliver to sick individuals or those who have difficulty leaving their homes.
A GoFundMe page was launched to raise money for the organization. If you would like to donate click here.
“Our hearts are heavy at this time to temporarily close the soup kitchen when the need to feed hungry citizens and families is so great,” Stein said.
God’s Kitchen – Battle Creek plans to reopen August 1.
“One of my colleagues reminded me that there are 150 churches in Battle Creek,” Stein said. “Pastor Tom Ryberg, associate pastor of First Congregational Church went on to state that ‘if every church in town donated $1,000 each to God’s Kitchen, your annual budget would be funded.'”
