** UPDATE: October 31, 2025 **
Portage City Hall will be open on Saturday, November 1, from 8 AM to 4 PM. To make it more convenient for residents, especially over the weekend, donations of food and personal hygiene items may be delivered during this time.
The City of Portage is partnering with Kalamazoo Metro to launch an urgent “Stuff the Bus” food drive to support Twelve Baskets, the volunteer-run food pantry serving Portage families. The drive is prompted by the imminent suspension of SNAP benefits this Saturday due to the federal government shutdown.
Beginning immediately through Thursday, November 6 at 5:30 PM residents are invited to drop off non-perishable food items and personal hygiene products at Portage City Hall (Mon – Thu, 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM; Fri, 8 AM - 12 PM). City and Metro employees will help load a Metro bus with the donated items and deliver them to Twelve Baskets on Friday, November 7.
“Metro is proud to partner with the City of Portage and Twelve Baskets to put wheels – and willing hands – under community support,” said Sean McBride, Executive Director of Kalamazoo Metro.
Dry food goods and personal hygiene items are especially needed – no fresh food or meat, please. The drive gives Portage residents a chance to step up for their neighbors during this period of economic uncertainty.
“Portage is partnering with Metro to tap into the generosity of our community to meet the food needs of our neighbors, just as we rallied around those who were affected by the tornado.” said Mayor Patricia Randall. “Please give generously!”
“We are proud to partner with Metro to help address the needs of our neighbors, friends, and families during these challenging times,” said Councilmember Jihan Young. “We’ve done it before, Portage – let’s do it again! Every donation makes a difference. Whether you need a blessing or can be a blessing, let’s come together for the community we call home.”
We invite all residents of the City of Portage to join us in this community effort. Your donation, large or small, will help ensure that neighbors facing uncertainty continue to have access to essential food and hygiene supplies.
For learn more about Twelve Baskets or to volunteer your time at the food pantry, visit https://twelve-baskets.org/.