WHAT IS THE ESSENTIALS STORE?
The Essentials Store is a volunteer-run hygiene and household pantry located at New Life Church in Wayland, Michigan. It provides free personal hygiene products, cleaning supplies, diapers, and other household essentials. Members can shop once a month without scheduling an appointment.
I’m so thankful for this pantry, not just for the help but for the relationships. They even make sure to stock my wife’s favorite toothpaste. It’s little things like that that make us feel cared for and seen.- Essentials Store Member
WHAT ARE THE HOURS AND LOCATION?
The Essentials Store is located in New Life Church. We are open every Tuesday from 11AM to 1PM and the first Wednesday of every month from 6 to 7PM.
WE ARE LOCATED AT 160 PINE ST – RIGHT BEHIND DOLLAR GENERAL
Coming to the Essentials Store has been such a blessing for me and my family. With the rising cost of everything, I used to have to choose between buying soap and shampoo or paying for my asthma medication. Now, because I can get these hygiene products for free, I have enough money left over to buy the medication and put more healthy food on the table. It’s taken such a weight off my shoulders. I’m so grateful for everyone who makes this possible.- Essentials Store Member
HOW DOES IT WORK?
The Essentials Store uses a simple pantry model designed to give families both support and choice. Members can shop once each month, selecting the household essentials their family actually needs, and the average family receives more than $150 in free products each year, plus diapers.
GETTING STARTED IS SIMPLE:
Once you’re a member, come back each month and shop for the essentials that will make the biggest difference for your family. To get started, visit during our open hours and bring each of the following:
• VALID IDENTIFICATION
• PROOF OF RESIDENCY – ANY 2 DOCUMENTS WITH YOUR ADDRESS
• PROOF OF STATE ASSISTANCE – WIC, SNAP, MEDICAID CARD, ETC.
How can I get involved?There are several meaningful ways to help The Essentials Store care for families in our community. You can donate needed household and personal care items, or make a financial gift and let us purchase the products families need most.
Local businesses can also serve as drop-off locations for donations, and individuals can join our team by volunteering during store hours. Whether you give, collect, or serve, every contribution helps put practical essentials into the hands of our neighbors.
