South Lyon Turns Thankful as Families Gather for Thanksgiving Goodies
In the heart of South Lyon, turkey and trimmings were flying off the shelves at the Active Faith food pantry this week. Nearly 170 families came to collect their festive feasts just days before Thanksgiving, filling their kitchens with the warmth of the holiday season. Amidst this hustle, the staff at Active Faith felt an extra dose of gratitude as they celebrated a special milestone—the opening of their brand-new building at 553 S. Lafayette St.
A Long-Awaited Vision Comes Alive
Sharon Sower, the dedicated executive director of Active Faith, expressed her heartfelt emotions as she discussed the impact of this new facility. “I can’t talk without being emotional,” she admitted. “This was a vision that took three years, and we did it together as a community. People who need help aren’t embarrassed to come to a nice facility.” The organization, which started as a collaboration among ten churches, has been serving low-income families in the South Lyon School District for an impressive 37 years.
Bigger and Better Facilities
For the past two decades, Active Faith operated out of a 3,700-square-foot warehouse on Washington Street. However, as the demand for assistance grew, so did the need for a larger space. The new building, formerly known as Alexander’s Polish American Restaurant, spans a generous 7,200 square feet. It was purchased in July 2023, and following a year-long renovation process, it finally opened its doors just in time for the holiday rush.
Community Support Makes It Happen
The astounding transformation of this space wouldn’t have been possible without a generous $840,000 grant from the state of Michigan alongside ongoing community fundraising efforts, which raised over $450,000 for renovations. The new facility boasts ample room for various functions—office spaces for staff, a multi-purpose room, and a clothing “closet” that looks more like a boutique rather than a charitable offering.
The pantry itself resembles a grocery store, allowing clients to select from non-perishable food items, fresh fruits and vegetables, meat, and dairy products. This unique setup is what Sower refers to as a “free choice” pantry, giving clients the dignity to choose their groceries rather than simply receiving a pre-packed box.
Touching Lives One Meal at a Time
As clients began to explore their new surroundings, Sower noted that many were left speechless, while others couldn’t help but shed tears of joy. One client even asked, “All this for us?” Sower emphasized that the goal is to help individuals see beyond their current circumstances. “We want them to know they are not stuck,” she affirmed.
Among the visitors was Karen McDonald, a Wixom resident who has been relying on the pantry since her retirement due to health issues. “They are always kind, respectful, and welcoming,” she shared, expressing her appreciation for the healthy food options available. “I am grateful.”
Another visitor, Andrea Lane, who turned to the pantry during the pandemic, emphasized how the resources provided were a “lifesaving” solution for her and her partner during tough times, including assistance with car repairs and mortgage payments.
Getting Ready for Christmas Cheer
As the holiday spirit begins to fill the air, Sower and her team at Active Faith are already gearing up to help Santa deliver gifts to over 100 children, ranging from newborns to age 17. If anyone in the community needs assistance or wishes to contribute, they are encouraged to visit the organization’s website.
In a time where kindness and compassion make all the difference, the people of South Lyon continue to embody the spirit of giving, proving that helping hands can make the holiday season a little brighter for those in need.
