MUSKEGON HEIGHTS, Mich. — One thing that's known to bring a community together is food.
On Saturday in Muskegon Heights, a first-of-its-kind event was held offering free food, activities for kids to enjoy, free health education and resources. There were also different venues for those attending to shop around.
For Jaesean Clark and his family, it was the perfect day to have some fun.
"My family thought it would be fun. We learned about it and thought we’d come because we thought today would be a wonderful day to go out,” Clark said.
The event was hosted by Corine's Cakes & Catering in collaboration with S.T.A.N.D. (Strengthening the African American Nation Daily), a nonprofit organization for the African American community.
The organizer said events like this are going to become more frequent in the neighborhood.
"What this means is the entire community is coming out to have a good time with one another to enjoy music, free food, vendors that have food and a car show,” LaShae Simmons II said. "All of this is because of Corine’s Cakes & Catering and S.T.A.N.D., we have chosen to put something together for the community to enjoy."
Among the dancing, cheering and eating was live singing from "U'Neek Soul."
There were also raffles and free ice cone treats from Frostbite Shaved Ice. The owner, Justin Hawkins, said it's important to give back to the community he loves.
"I hope this is just a glimmer of what's to come,” said Hawkins. "I believe this will spark more opportunities for other people to come out and be a part of something great. This is a great event and we're just happy to be here."
As the people of Muskegon Heights said they're striving for a better, safer and more welcoming community, many who attended said they hope it won't be the last event they'll attend.
"I hope that this can continue to keep people coming together,” Corine Rose said. "We're a very small community and we must stay together and love one another.”
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