The season of giving has once again arrived in Michigan. But this one comes amid a surging pandemic, an economic downturn, and a looming deadline for continuation of federal financial relief.

All of these have created intense need in communities surrounding Michigan Medicine. In response, the University of Michigan’s academic medical center will launch a third effort to encourage its own team, and the local community, to give food and funds to support Food Gatherers.

Starting December 14, and continuing through the 22nd, this will include a convenient drive-up drop-off location for food and toiletries, open to U-M faculty, staff and students, and members of the community in a position to give. It's located at Dock 90 of the North Campus Research Complex, just off Huron Parkway.

Donors may give online via credit card, or get information about giving by mail or phone, at http://www.foodgatherers.org/UM.

Already this year, donors to Michigan Medicine’s previous two drives have contributed the equivalent of 128,000 meals for Food Gatherers to distribute to more than 170 agencies that serve people throughout Washtenaw County and beyond. Generous individuals have also given thousands of pounds of personal care items, from diapers to toothbrushes.

The donation drive started in March, as part of Michigan Medicine’s effort to gather much-needed personal protective equipment during the early days of the pandemic when normal supply chains were disrupted.

Since that time, Food Gatherers’ partners have experienced a consistent surge in demand from people affected by the economic effects of the pandemic. Uncertainty over the future of federal and state relief efforts is making planning difficult.