What began as a commitment to serve at the Elsie Baby Pantry has grown into something much larger for Margaret Remenar (Branch 721, Bannister, MI). While she dedicates about 12 hours each month to the pantry, she is quick to point out that none of the work is done alone—it is truly a team effort. Together with fellow volunteers and community partners, their impact reaches far beyond the pantry’s walls.
The Elsie Baby Pantry supports third-trimester expectant mothers and families with young children by providing essential items such as diapers, wipes, clothing, formula, baby food, and more—all free of charge. Open twice each month, the pantry ensures that families can visit regularly and receive the supplies they need.
Margaret plays a hands-on role in making that possible. She helps repackage diapers purchased in bulk by putting them into bundles of 20 to 30 for distribution. She sorts and organizes donated items, restocks shelves before, during, and after each opening, and warmly assists clients as they shop.
But what truly stands out is how Margaret helps connect the pantry to the wider community. Although she doesn’t write grants herself, she keeps a pulse on local opportunities and shares valuable information that helps the team secure additional funding. Her involvement on the financial board at Sts. Cyril & Methodius Church has helped direct donations to the pantry, and she supports other collaborative fundraising efforts—like a monthly pancake breakfast hosted by a local organization, with proceeds benefiting the pantry.
Margaret also serves on the Tri-County Electric People’s Fund, a unique program that invites residents in this small community to “round up” their utility bills. Those small contributions add up, and every six weeks, funds are distributed to local causes—including the baby pantry, Blessings in a Backpack, and other outreach programs.
A retired teacher of 34 years, Margaret knows her community well. She uses those connections to bring people and resources together, strengthening the network of support behind the pantry. Partnerships like the one with the Elsie Food Bank, which donates surplus baby food, further reflect the shared commitment of many working together to help local families.
For Margaret, volunteering is not just about giving time—it’s about being part of a team that builds relationships and strengthens the community. She is especially grateful for the $250 donation made by FCSU to the Elsie Baby Pantry in her honor. “It will buy a lot of diapers or formula,” she shared. Through her dedication, Margaret Remenar exemplifies the true spirit of fraternalism in action—showing how a community working together can make a meaningful difference, one family at a time.