Grillin’ for Food Gatherers
What is Grillin’?
Grillin' 2023 Update
After much consideration, Food Gatherers staff and board have made the difficult decision not to host Grillin’ for Food Gatherers in 2023.
Grillin’ was a wonderful celebration of Food Gatherers’ work to fight hunger in our community and a chance to gather with many others committed to helping our neighbors facing food insecurity. However, the pandemic has challenged nearly every aspect of our operation, forcing us to rethink many of our practices and traditions.
This event relied on the partnership of many sponsors and in-kind donations from dozens of local food businesses.
Due to ongoing inflation and supply chain issues, we cannot ask our still-recovering food partners to support a large fundraiser at this time.
We continue to prioritize our hunger relief mission with 486 local and regional food rescue donors.
The greatest joy of Grillin’ was seeing so many supporters of Food Gatherers in one place. The sheer number of people who join us in the fight against hunger where we live is an inspiration, and celebrating together continues to be a goal for all of us.
Much has changed in the last few years, but our gratitude remains as we find new ways to support, recognize, and celebrate so many who make a difference.
Thank you for all you do as part of our community at Food Gatherers!
Second Sunday in June.
Grillin’ is Food Gatherers’ annual picnic with a purpose. Each year, we host more than 1,400 guests at the Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds for the best party of the year.
The Cause
One in seven people in Washtenaw County struggles with hunger. Proceeds from Grillin’ enable Food Gatherers to distribute more than 18,000 meals a day to adults, seniors, and children in need of food. Grillin’ 2019 raised nearly 700,000 meals for our neighbors living with food insecurity.
The Food
Grilled gourmet sausages, paella, vegetarian fare, and corn; side dishes and desserts from our area’s best restaurants and food retailers.
The Fun
Live music by local artists; cash bar featuring Michigan microbrews and wines; silent auction and raffle; kids’ activities hosted by the Hands-On Museum; complimentary massages provided by Body Wisdom Massage; and a photo booth!
Interested in sponsoring Grillin’ or holding your company picnic at this fun event? Learn more about becoming a sponsor.
Contact Information
Jen Whaley
Mgr. of Annual Giving and Grant Development
Phone: 734-761-2796
Email: jen.whaley@foodgatherers.org