DETROIT, Mich., July 29, 2025 — State Rep. Joe Tate (D-Detroit) recently introduced a bill that would amend the income tax act to allow taxpayers to claim credit for cash or food donations that they’ve provided to homeless shelters, food kitchens, food banks or other qualifying community resources in the state.

“This legislation is about making it easier for people to give back and support their neighbors in need. With food insecurity on the rise, this is one small step we can take to ensure fewer people in our communities go hungry,” Tate said.

Under the proposed law, beginning in January 2026, a taxpayer would be able to claim a credit against their state income tax equal to the combined value of their cash donations and the fair market value of their donated food. Eligible organizations include those primarily dedicated to providing overnight accommodations, meals or food assistance within Michigan. 

“Now more than ever, we need to do what we can to make sure good food isn’t going to waste. This bill is an important step in helping get more food to people who need it,” said Danielle Todd, Executive Director, Make Food Not Waste. 

“We welcome policies that make it easier for Michiganders to support people facing hunger. By offering a refundable tax credit, this legislation encourages generosity at every level, from individuals to businesses — and that kind of community support matters,” said Dr. Phil King, Executive Director, Food Bank Council of Michigan.

Food insecurity continues to be a growing concern across Michigan. Currently, 1 in 7 people in the state face food insecurity, which means they don’t always know when or where their next meal will come from. That number is expected to increase following the recent passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which slashes funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program — a critical federal benefit for a number of families. 

Further compounding the issue is Michigan House Republicans’ proposed School Aid partial budget, which would cut universal free breakfast and lunch programs that feed roughly 1.4 million public school students in Michigan. As a result, community resources like shelters, food kitchens, food banks and meal programs are expected to face an increase in demand as they become the primary source of food for many struggling families.

“I am happy to champion this bill. It’s about restoring a tool that used to be in place and worked well, supporting both those in need and those willing to give. Reinstating this tax credit not only encourages generosity, but also strengthens the safety net for Michiganders facing food insecurity,” Tate concluded. 

Michigan previously offered a similar tax credit for charitable contributions to shelters and food banks, but it was eliminated in 2012. The newly introduced seeks to reinstate the credit and provide critical support for both donors and the growing number of residents in need.

###