MARQUETTE, Mich. (WZMQ) – This week, Marquette business Jilbert Dairy, along with a generous benefactor, made a difference in the lives of those facing food insecurity amid the government shutdown.
A local community member stopped by the business asking to buy milk to give away to people who have not received their November SNAP benefits. The general manager offered to match their offer.
Jilbert Dairy produced 1,000 gallons of 2% milk, along with 28 gallons of whole and skim milk available by request. On Thursday, a line of cars formed outside the business at 10 am. There was a steady stream of cars throughout the day, along with a few people on bicycles. By 5 p.m., Jilbert Dairy staff members had given away all of the 2% milk and four gallons of both the whole and skim milk.
“One man on a bike asked for a quart of milk because it would fit in his backpack,” said Colleen Fassbender, Senior Business Support for Jilbert Dairy. “People were picking milk up for themselves, friends, family members who couldn’t stop by. The wife of a federal worker identified and was so grateful. Several people stopped by just to say thanks and didn’t take any milk.”
John Jilbert—a member of the Jilbert family who started the business in Lake Linden before moving to Marquette—often gave to local organizations. Now part of the Dairy Farmers of America (DFA), Jilbert Dairy continues to be community-oriented with initiatives like the DFA’s Care Foundation and Kemps Giving Cow. Fassbender says the milk giveaway is just another example of the business’ dedication to supporting its community.
“People have been so positive and thankful for this small giveaway for themselves and for others in the area that need our help,” she said. “Our employees really enjoyed meeting with people and sharing in those good feelings. It just takes one person to start something wonderful.”
