Our History

Serving Since 2000

Open Door Ministry was founded by John Drouillard in 2000. He and his wife distributed food out of their home, filling trunks with plenty of wonderful food—a tradition that continues today.

The current Thursday night distribution began in fall 2002 at Tri City Christian Center (now Connection Church) and moved to a rented warehouse in winter 2003. Serving 60–100 families weekly grew to a peak of 180, with one-on-one volunteer support and prayer.

During the Great Recession (2008–2009), zoning and safety challenges led us to a drive-through distribution model—doubling our reach to serve over 440 families weekly, with peaks above 500, even as Michigan's economy struggled.

In 2012, Connection Church purchased our warehouse, giving us permanent space of over 48,000 sq ft. Today, we serve nearly 400 families weekly—distributing 20,000 lbs of food—and support comes from schools, churches, businesses, scouts, sports teams, and countless caring individuals.

Our mission extends beyond food: we follow God's lead to help families lift themselves out of poverty and into stability. Over 8,500 families have been served, with 90% improving their situation—100% of the glory goes to God.