08/15/2026
Thank you. Two words that feel small compared to the massive wave of generosity our community displayed this month.
When we shared with you that hundreds of local children experiencing homelessness were facing the upcoming school year without appropriate clothing, we asked for help. You responded with a level of kindness that blew us all away. Because you chose to act, 175 students will start the school year equipped for success! Your support means these children can focus on learning, rather than worrying about how they look or if they fit in. New clothes offer these kids a sense of normalcy, dignity, and the confidence they deserve to focus on their education.
Macomb Charitable would like to acknowledge the following:
St. Peter Lutheran Church & School - Macomb and the kids/staff at St. Peter HIS ROCK for ALWAYS supporting "our" kids. Over 200 QUALITY backpacks and an abundance of school supplies were collected and given to these children. 1 John 3:18
Mr. and Mrs. Richard Shore for their generous financial support of our efforts.
All of our amazing supporters who donated via our Amazon Wish List. You continue to bless our efforts and we give thanks for you.
The Central Macomb Optimist Foundation Michigan USA, an amazing group of like-minded volunteers who have supported our efforts for years. They donated funds and manpower to make this event a success.
McNAUGHTON-McKAY ELECTRIC COMPANY, a community minded company who donated items for our Hygiene Bags, one per child. These bags hold more than shampoo and conditioner. They hold hope for children who often go to school without the proper hygiene items. Thank you for opening your hearts to them. We look forward to a long partnership.
General Dynamics Land Systems who have been supporting our efforts for many years now. They provided snack bags for all of our kids. Treats and necessities for children who often go without.
The Macomb County Sheriff's Office who sent their deputies to shop with the kids. These children look up to you. So do we.
Dairy Queen in Utica for supplying Blizzards at a great discount.
This might well be the favorite part of the event for the kids! :)
The Crackleheads. An amazing group of friends who bless our efforts with their time and talents. They have become a big part of our foundation and we are thankful for their support.
BOMBA Socks who make good on their promise to consumers to donate a pair of socks for every pair purchased. They sent us 3000 pair of socks! Some distributed today, some for another time.
MAG Automotive for collecting new school supplies for our bookbags. Thank you for choosing MCF!
Meijer at 26 and Van D**e. Michelle and Kim, your staff is amazing! You open your doors to us and welcome us in, knowing we are going to TAKE OVER the aisles! You make us feel welcome and you make "our" kids feel seen. Thank you.
The many, many volunteers who attended the event today.
This effort succeeded because an entire community showed up.
I would like to acknowledge the board members of Macomb Charitable who tirelessly worked all year to help raise funds for today. This team understands the mission and I am incredibly proud to work beside them.
We didn't just hand out clothes today; we handed out hope.
With a grateful heart,
Shelly Penzien
