In this episode of Sidewalk Talks, Tina Dowe Swanton, CEO of the Saginaw Community Food Club and Kitchen,  gives us the scoop on this incredible project that will increase access to quality food in the City of Saginaw. The Food Club will feel and act like your favorite grocery store, but with a very different approach to pricing. Members will pay $12 to $16 a month—a sliding scale based on income and household size—and shop with points.  The Food Club will also accept cash or credit/debit card for payment. Member households can shop daily until all points are used. The membership fee also offers access to nutrition education opportunities.

A primary goal of the Food Club is to support those in the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) population who often fall into the 'benefits cliff' whil also working in tandem with other amazing organizations addressing food insecurity like Hidden Harvest  and East Side Soup Kitchen. 

Join us for a look at a community-driven initiative that's set to make a big impact in 2026! 

Show Notes: 

00:00 Let's Eat Some Baked Goods

00:45 Farm-to-Table Delights

03:08 The Saginaw Community Food Club and Kitchen

04:38 Addressing Food Insecurity

05:55 The Benefits Gap and ALICE Population

08:33 Community Efforts and Emergency Food Systems

13:54 Construction and Future Plans

15:20 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

We dive deep with Jimmy Green, discussing the essence of authenticity in life and marriage, the importance of being genuinely oneself, and the significance of honesty in personal growth and relationships. He also passionately talks about his recent initiative, 'Safety Around Water,' aimed at teaching kids essential swimming skills to ensure their safety, demonstrating how individual actions can spur significant community change. This episode is packed with personal anecdotes, impactful life lessons, and inspiring community efforts. Don't miss it!

00:00 Setting Up the Microphone
01:00 Wedding Day
02:10 Finding Peace in Marriage
03:28 Authenticity in Relationships
06:16 Midlife Unraveling and Truth
09:32 Failures and Lessons Learned
10:35 Safety Around Water: A New Initiative
11:04 A Heartbreaking Tragedy
11:34 Taking Action: The Swim Lesson Initiative
12:11 Community Support and Growth
13:54 Personal Reflections on Swimming
15:04 The Lifesaving Importance of Swimming
16:26 Program Implementation and Future Plans
17:48 Overcoming Challenges and Pushback
19:46 The Power of Individual Action
21:17 Final Thoughts and Future Conversations

Jamie Forbes joins the discussion about the significance of community organizing and its impact on making lasting positive changes. The conversation explores personal experiences, the art of communication, and practical tips for those looking to drive change in their communities. Jamie shares stories about the transformative power of phrases like 'tell me more,' the importance of building relationships, and maintaining a resilient spirit despite challenges. Tune in for an inspiring chat that delves into the essence of community, the value of connection, and the power of collaborative efforts!

00:00 Introduction and Clapper
00:55 Discussing Hats and Personal Stories
01:40 The Power of 'Tell Me More'
04:52 Community Organizing 101
08:13 Building Relationships and Making Progress
09:34 No Permanent Friends, No Permanent Enemies
13:52 Changing Conversations for Community Transformation
16:58 Reframing Conflict and Embracing Principles
17:41 The Importance of Addressing Misunderstandings
18:38 Maintaining Relationships Despite Disagreements
20:15 The Power of Individual Action
21:59 Balancing Personal Well-being and Community Involvement
26:52 Practical Tips for Community Organizing
30:39 The Privilege of Community Engagement