Fuerstenau Burkett Farm Bureau Insurance Agency to Present Mulliken Area Food Pantry Donation

To support efforts by the Mulliken Area Food Pantry, the Fuerstenau Burkett Farm Bureau Insurance Agency will be at the Pantry’s Aug. 20 ice cream social fundraising and distribution event to present the organization with a $2,500 donation through Farm Bureau Insurance of Michigan Agent Charitable Fund (ACF). The Pantry is a critical resource utilized by 100-200 visitors per month and was recently beset by the threat of closure due to rising utility costs and expenses.

“When we heard of the Mulliken Area Food Pantry’s challenges, we immediately started discussing how we could help,” said Ashley Burkett, agency principal at the Fuerstenau Burkett Agency. 

“Fighting hunger for families across Michigan is central to Michigan Farm Bureau and Farm Bureau Insurance community involvement efforts, and it was important to us to find a way to help support this community resource,” added agent Jim Fuerstenau.

The pantry reported a spike in utility costs resulting in bills two-to-four times more expensive than normal, putting an unexpected strain on its budget. 

“For an organization that relies on volunteers and donations, this put us in an incredibly difficult position,” said Will Simon, president of the Mulliken Area Food Pantry. “While trying to raise the necessary funding to continue normal operations, we had to start having a realistic conversation about potentially closing doors in the first quarter of 2026.”

While working to keep those in Mulliken and the surrounding communities fed, the Pantry has remained active fundraising and collecting food donations to overcome the shortfall. This includes weekly ice cream socials like Wednesday’s event at the park directly behind the Pantry, aimed at fostering inclusivity and community while also driving donations and connecting supporters. Those unable to attend wishing to help can submit donations here.

Mulliken Food Pantry Ice Cream Social: 6-8 p.m. Aug. 20 at 206 Main St. in Mulliken; check presentation at 6:30.

Along with the Fuerstenau Burkett Agency, The Michigan Farm Bureau Family of Companies and the ACF remain invested in fighting childhood hunger in Michigan through research, policy, volunteerism, fundraising programs, donations, and grants. Click here to learn more.