The mission of the Community Resource Center, Inc. is to serve individuals and families by offering, or connecting them to, resources that improve their lives and enhance the well-being of our neighbors in the greater Manchester community. (Revised April 2022)

Ultimately, the goal of the CRC is to offer a hand up, not just a hand out. Along the way it is sometimes necessary to assist families and individuals by helping them get back on track through direct financial help, referrals to appropriate agencies,  as well as access to food and technology. We strive to empower families and individuals by offering information and resources to help them help themselves.

Partners in and around the community – The CRC coordinates programming with local and county-wide service and civic organizations, churches, government agencies, schools, and many others. The CRC receives significant financial support through gifts from individuals and businesses, fundraising events, as well as contract/grant funding from local governments, foundations and agencies.

Emergency Financial Assistance – is provided through grants and gifts, in addition to access to the Michigan Department of Health & Human Services for State Emergency Relief (SER) or other coordinated funding agencies as available and applicable.

• Rent/housing needs; utilities (natural gas, electricity, water, deliverable fuels)

Food Pantry – CRC is now offering in-person shopping by appointment.  All you need to do is call CRC’s office (734-428-7722) to schedule an appointment.  Appointment times are offered during normal pantry hours (Monday, Tuesday, & Thursday 9am – 2:30pm; Wednesday 11:30am – 2:30pm). You will have 30-40 minutes to shop, if you arrive on time.  We are looking forward to seeing you in the pantry!  If you prefer,  you may still place a phone order and arrange curb-side pick-up.  Just call us!

Food is delivered twice monthly from Food Gatherers; volunteers staff the food pantry for ½ day shifts; additional donations are received from community members, churches, food drives, local farms, community garden plots and the Acorn Farmer’s Market & Café. A variety of fresh produce and frozen meat are usually available. Low salt, low sugar items are the norm. Baby food and nutritional supplements are also on hand. We stock donated non-food items like toilet paper, toothpaste, and laundry detergent.

• Clients must check in each time they shop
• Clients may visit 2 times per month but it is not meant to be their only food source
• Clients must show valid photo ID with current address in Manchester School District
• Clients must qualify by providing proof of income and meeting USDA guidelines (200% federal poverty level)
• During an average month, about 50 households will visit the food pantry up to 2 times each

Chelsea Hospital Behavioral Health navigators and Washtenaw County Community Mental Health counselors are available by phone to offer free mental health resources. 

We can work with you to determine the public and charitable programs available to you and your family. We can assist you as you apply for benefits, work to find employment, and generally try to improve your current situation and prepare for a better future. Because every situation is unique, we recommend meeting with us to discuss any programs in which you are interested.

Here are just a few of the services we can provide:

• We can provide assistance in applying to MIBridges programs which include healthcare, food, emergency relief, and childcare assistance.
• We have several computers, a fax machine, a copier, and a scanner, that can be used to fill out applications for benefits and conduct job searches.
• Job seekers can get resume assistance from Washtenaw County Michigan Works at the CRC.
• Older Adults can meet with a Senior Resource Advocate from Catholic Social Service. Assistance covered includes Medicare issues, respite care referrals and more.
• We can connect you with financial coaches.
• We have volunteers to assist with reading, writing, and financial literacy.
• New parents can request baby baskets through us (provided courtesy of Manchester Ladies Society).
• We regularly host WIC, which provides special supplemental food and nutrition program for women, infants and children under age five.
• We provide free tax preparation through VITA.
• We can also refer clients to: Senior Nutrition/Meals on Wheels; Lion’s Club for eye sight and hearing assistance; county programs for heating and home repairs; Spanish-speaking DHS staff to assist migrant families; Dress for Success and more.

Believe it or not, we do even more than is listed above!

To get help with any of the above or just discuss your situation in general, please call us 734-428-7722 to make an appointment with our director.

Current Hours at the Community Resource Center

Food Pantry (you’ll still need to call ahead to place your order or schedule your pick-up time)

Monday          9am-3pm (last pick up time is 2:30pm)

Tuesday          9am-3pm (last pick up time is 2:30pm)

Wednesday    9am-3pm (last pick up time is 2:30pm)

Thursday         9am-3pm (last pick up time is 2:30pm)

Friday              CLOSED

Office (please call ahead for any specific services to make sure someone is available to assist you)

Monday          9am-3pm

Tuesday          9am-3pm

Wednesday    9am-3pm

Thursday         9am-3pm

Friday              CLOSED

If you have a need and are looking for help, please contact us. We are usually able to assist you directly. If not, we are able to provide contact information for partner resources or other referrals.

Please feel free to share this information with friends, family members and neighbors.