Cynthia Monter (left) and Maria Coss pose for a photo inside the Diocesan Migrant Pantry in Saginaw on June 12.
SAGINAW, Mich. — As migrant farmworkers begin arriving in Mid-Michigan for the growing season, the Diocese of Saginaw is expanding efforts to support them not only with basic necessities, but also through spiritual accompaniment and pastoral care.
Each year, migrant farmworkers travel to Mid-Michigan, many bringing their families with them. Because they frequently move from place to place and often work for limited wages, many face challenges obtaining essential items such as blankets, diapers, food and other household necessities.
Spiritual accompaniment and pastoral care
For decades, members of the Catholic community throughout the Diocese of Saginaw have responded by donating food, clothing and other supplies. The diocese also supports migrant families by providing priests for the celebration of weekly Masses and the sacraments.
This year, the Diocesan Migrant Pantry relocated to the Diocese of Saginaw's Center for Ministry in Saginaw.
According to Cinthya Monter of the Diocese of Saginaw's Office of Parish Life and Evangelization, the pantry has become a focal point for collaboration among parishes and community members throughout the diocese.
Building relationships
"People are coming from all over, as far as we know, including Bay Port," Monter said. "It is important that the pantry is here because we are a visible sign of the Church in the community. We are also building relationships with all the parishes in the Diocese."
Monter said the pantry's central location offers parish groups an opportunity to see the Church's outreach efforts firsthand and participate directly in serving migrant families.
"We are not only providing material assistance but also accompanying them in their faith journey," Monter said.
Above: Kelsey (left) and Omar, whose last names are being withheld for privacy, pose for a photo in the Diocesan Migrant Pantry on June 11. They are migrant farm workers from Rocky Mount, North Carolina, recently arrived in Michigan and will be working in Caro for approximately two months.
The ministry has received a strong response from parishioners and supporters since opening at its new location. The pantry has been blessed by an overwhelming outpouring of generosity from donors across the region.
"Thank you to everyone who has contributed — your kindness is making a real difference," diocesan staff said in a recent update.
Maria Coss also serves in the Diocese of Saginaw's Office of Parish Life and Evangelization. She said the support has exceeded what she initially envisioned for the ministry.
"I am especially grateful to Bishop Gruss for making space available at the Center for Ministry," Coss said. "While I had a vision for what I hoped the pantry would become, it has far exceeded my expectations."
Community Volunteers
Along with the donations, a steady stream of volunteers makes the work easier. Everyone wants to help as volunteers of every generation are working side by side—from students fulfilling service hours to retirees generously giving their time simply because they want to help.
The same enthusiasm can be found among Diocesan employees, Coss said.
"The entire diocesan staff has played a significant role in helping the pantry get up and running. From collecting donations to assisting with loading and unloading supplies, their support has been invaluable. We are also fortunate to have the expertise and dedication of Owen (Deming) and now Cinthya, both of whom have been tremendous assets to the pantry's success."
The Diocese of Saginaw continues to seek volunteers to assist with migrant ministry efforts throughout the season. Those interested in volunteering may contact Cinthya Monter at (989) 797-6644 or Maria Coss at (989) 797-6646.