Meal Assistance Program of Lenawee County is transforming traditional food pantry services with an app that lets families select groceries from their phones.
LENAWEE COUNTY, Mich. — Food insecurity continues to affect families across Lenawee County, but one Tecumseh organization is working to make access to groceries faster and more convenient through technology and delivery services.
Leaders with the Meal Assistance Program of Lenawee County say the organization has distributed more than 210,000 pounds of food over the past year and a half, helping families receive groceries with fewer barriers.
For De’Angelo Boone, the program’s director, the work is deeply personal. Boone said he experienced food insecurity growing up in Detroit and understands the challenges many families face.
“I come from a marginalized community back in Detroit, and my family depended on food pantries,” said Boone. “So to be a leader in a very creative and innovative approach to food pantry services was huge for me to be a part of that.”
Boone launched the program in 2020 with the goal of making food assistance more accessible for families already dealing with financial stress.
“We’re just trying to make sure that food is accessible, that people can access it when they need it most, and that we reduce the barriers, especially transportation barriers,” said Boone.
The organization now uses a mobile app and delivery partnerships to help families order groceries and receive food more efficiently.
Boone said the app allows users to choose foods they are familiar with instead of receiving pre-packed food boxes, helping reduce food waste and giving families more flexibility.
“We operate with an app that allows people to shop at their convenience, and it’s a choice app as well, so families are able to select foods they’re familiar with,” said Boone.
Boone said anyone living in Lenawee County who needs assistance can download the app and apply for services through their phone.