Waterford Couple to Start Food Pantry in White Lake

To start the year off on a good note, Lyle Brous’ wife, Michele, suggested that they start a food pantry.

Since the words came out of her mouth, the Waterford couple has been actively making connections in the surrounding communities, seeking partnerships and donations for food and toiletry items. The concept was spurred by Brous’ couponing. He said he has a huge stash of toothbrushes, toothpaste and other toiletry items, thanks to his avid couponing, that he would like to see used by those in need.

“It’s really exciting, we’ve started to form some great relationships,” Brous said.

Most recently, he has been talking with Walgreens, Rite Aid Pharmacy and about donating to the cause and recruiting volunteers.

The couple founded Sova Inc., which officially gained status as a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization on Feb. 1. The Brouses have partnered with Gleaners Community Food Bank of Southeast Michigan for their venture and plan to open a Client Choice Food Pantry in White Lake.

When Brous approached Michael McDonald, Gleaners director of agency and program support, about the prospect of opening a pantry, they realized that the White Lake area falls outside any other coverage area.

“We don’t have any food pantries in that area; the nearest one is in Howell,” McDonald said. “We have been targeting that area for quite some time, and their timing is perfect.”

Gleaners partners with about 25 Client Choice Food Pantries in Michigan, McDonald said, and the service organization has been trying to get more of its partners to open Client Choice pantries because they use a much more efficient process than many other food distribution charities.

“The scenario many operate on is someone shows up, and they are handed a box of food, but how do I know what your dietary needs are? How do I know that you have two kids in your house and one has a peanut allergy? How do I know that you like green beans?” McDonald said. “Sometimes a box of food becomes a waste.”

He was pleased to learn that Brous already had that pantry model in mind.

Brous said he never thought of developing a pantry in any other way. He said that although many pantries are able to function by distributing food boxes to those in need, he would rather see the food not go to waste. By allowing clients coming through the door to shop for their items, organizers help ensure that it will be eaten.

Each client is allowed 30 pounds of food per person living in the household. Proper documentation is required to verify the address and number of people living there. Typically, clients may visit up to six times a year, Brous said. Eight families can be processed per hour.

“Over time, if we have the space and manpower, I wouldn’t mind taking in toys or clothes that we would then give away,” Brous said. “I hope, over time, we can get a counselor so we can offer tools for clients to get jobs.”

But first, Sova Inc. needs to secure a location. The organization has been discussing moving into the current location of , 10325 Highland Rd., which will be moving next door. The only holdup in the deal is that Sova Inc. still needs finances.

“We’ve identified a location," Brous said. "Now we really want to get the community involved, not just for volunteering, but for financial help so we can make a commitment to the person who has the property.”

Brous hopes to have the pantry up and running in the next month or two. He expects to have the doors open two to four days during the week, at least in the beginning. Gleaners has agreed to stock the pantry for its opening.

“It’s nice to see someone in the community with that energy and that desire to take care of people in need in the community,” McDonald said.

Community members interested in volunteering may reach Sova Inc. at 248-431-8500, email lyle@sovaresources.org or visit sovaresources.org. Donations may be made through PayPal or by check or money order, payable to Sova Inc., mailed to 1095 Oregon Blvd., Waterford, MI 48327.