The MISSION of the CRC is to serve individuals and families in need by offering effective programs that improve their lives, promote volunteerism, and enhance the welfare of the Manchester community.

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 – Currently, all food pantry grocery orders must be done over the phone. Pick up times are scheduled during our “open” hours.

In normal times, our choice pantry is generally open select hours Monday – Friday; 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

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

Volunteers & staff – Currently, the CRC is following health department guidelines for staffing the food pantry and office; we are only allowing staff and volunteers into our space for the time being; monitoring our health, wearing masks in the presence of others, maintaining safe distancing, and more.

Other offerings – all in-person activities are on hold until further notice. However, we are able to assist with the following services over the phone or with limited contact (papers passed through the door):

• Technology – faxing and copying
• USDA food products available in food pantry to anyone in need of emergency food
• Referrals to: Senior Nutrition/Meals on Wheels (currently supported by the Chelsea Senior Center); WIC (Women, Infant, Children) Program
• Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) – tax return preparation assistance available for low-income and senior community members by phone appointment during tax season
• Application and redetermination assistance for MIBridges programs– trained staff available to talk with clients needing help with online DHHS benefits including those for healthcare, food, emergency relief, and childcare assistance by appointment over the phone
• CRC’s Wooden Nickel token program available to all registered pantry clients for fresh produce from Acorn Farmer’s Market & Café will resume once the new store is open to the public.

Current Hours at the Community Resource Center

Food Pantry (you’ll still need to call ahead to place your order and 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    12-3pm (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.

Stay safe.