With May comes a new Cents of Community recipient: Boyne Valley Pantry. Earlier this week we made a trip to Boyne Falls to say hello and see their work in action.
There, we connected with Executive Director Jim Groh and his right-hand partner, Diane Gillespie—affectionately dubbed “the brains of the operation.” As they moved through last-minute preparations ahead of their noon opening, they shared a story neither of them expected. Neither Jim nor Diane started at the pantry expecting to stay long-term, but over time, that’s exactly what happened. What began as a short-term commitment gradually grew into something much bigger, keeping them rooted in the pantry and the community it serves.
Founded in 2009 by the Catholic and Methodist churches, Boyne Valley Pantry has grown through the dedication of people like Jim and Diane. After retiring in 2013, Jim began volunteering—eventually stepping into the role of running the pantry. Diane planned to help for just two weeks, but six years later, she’s still an essential part of the team.
The pantry is thoughtfully set up like a small store, giving guests the dignity of choosing what works best for them. Diane keeps the space welcoming and easy to navigate, while both she and Jim are intentional about stocking a wide range of items—including options for those who may only have access to a microwave or hot plate for cooking.
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A major need at the pantry is fresh vegetables and dairy items like milk and cheese—staples that can be harder to keep stocked. They welcome partnerships with local farms and food retailers who have surplus to share, helping ensure their shelves reflect both freshness and variety.
When we asked what they most want the community to know, their answer was simple and heartfelt: “That we are here.”
They want people to know this is a place you can come for what you need—no questions asked. Right now, they’re serving around 30 families, with visitors traveling from across the area. No one is turned away at Boyne Valley Pantry.
More than just a food resource, it’s a place built on relationships. Jim and Diane take time to get to know the families who walk through the door, doing what they can to meet individual needs. Recent donations—like 500 pounds of ground beef from the Charlevoix County Sheriff’s Department and 350 pounds of chicken in April—have made a big impact, but also highlight a growing need for infrastructure to repackage and distribute items in ways that work best for each household.
Located just off Main Street in Boyne Falls, the pantry is open Thursdays from 12–5 pm. A sign outside the door—made by Diane’s husband—lists an after-hours number that connects directly to Jim. In the event of a food emergency, he’ll step in to assemble a box and make sure no one goes without. That number is (231) 545-9004.
We hope you’ll join us this month in rounding up for Boyne Valley Pantry. If you’re a local farmer or producer, consider reaching out to Jim and Diane if you have ideas for ways of supporting the pantry with fresh produce or locally made goods. Together, we can help spread the word: Boyne Valley Pantry is here, and they’re showing up for this community every day.
And just like our mission at the Grain Train, they’re making a real difference—one bite at a time.
Until next time, keep cooperating—we’ll see you at the stores.
