As the coronavirus, or COVID-19, continues to spread, the Novi, Mich.-based Michigan Milk Producers Association (MMPA) said it remains steadfast in its mission to market members’ milk to the greatest advantage possible while taking actions to protect the health and safety of its communities. Deemed a critical infrastructure business, MMPA continues to support the local and national dairy supply chain to ensure consumers have a safe, reliable supply of milk and dairy products.

In addition to engaging in continued business with customers, MMPA said is responding to increased need at food banks in the Great Lakes region with dairy product donations. In Indiana, MMPA is donating cheese from Heritage Ridge Creamery to Second Helpings, an organization focused on providing meals to individuals and families in need, with particular emphasis now amidst the COVID-19 issue. Additional cheese is also being donated to the Food Bank of Northern Indiana, an organization that provides food assistance in a six-county area in Northern Indiana.

Further, MMPA, along with Kroger’s Michigan Dairy plant, will donate over 2,020 pounds of milk per day to the Food Bank Council of Michigan throughout 2020. The first load of milk was delivered the week of March 23, MMPA said, and the total donation of approximately 85,000 gallons of milk will ultimately reach all 83 counties of Michigan. MMPA has donated over 333,000 gallons of milk since 2015, including this year’s donation announced at MMPA’s 104th Annual State Delegate Meeting on March 12.