Community members, local partners, and civic leaders gathered today at the Gloria Coles Flint Public Library to celebrate the official opening of its new community pantry. The ribbon cutting ceremony marked a meaningful expansion of the Library's commitment to serving Flint residents in both traditional and evolving ways.
More than a service point, the pantry represents the Library's growing role as a responsive and compassionate community hub. "This pantry is not just about meeting immediate needs," said Interim Executive Director Ann Manko. "It's about offering care, dignity, and connection — the same values that have guided our work for generations."
The project was made possible through the generosity of Genisys Credit Union, the pantry's launch sponsor, along with the collaborative support of Big John's Steak and Onion, Friends of the Library, and the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan.
The new pantry will provide essential support to Flint residents by offering a welcoming space where community members can access resources with dignity and respect. By bringing this resource directly into the heart of the Library, the project strengthens the Library's role as a vital community center, one that meets the evolving needs of its neighbors beyond books and traditional services.
This pantry was made possible by the generous leadership of Genisys Credit Union, the launch sponsor dedicated to supporting and strengthening the Flint community. Genisys's commitment to local partnerships and community well-being has been essential in bringing this project to life.
The pantry is now open to the public and will operate every Saturday from 2 to 4 p.m.
Its goal is to serve as a reliable resource for individuals and families, providing support in a welcoming and stigma-free environment.