This past March, a once-in-a-generation ice storm hit northern Michigan and left thousands without power. Roads were blocked with fallen trees and ice, and many of our neighbors found themselves stranded and in the dark. As soon as we saw what was happening, Sarah (Mrs. C herself) knew we had to help. We fired up the food truck and headed straight into the hard-hit areas, determined to deliver hot meals and comfort in any way we could.

Over the course of that challenging week, we donated hundreds of hot meals – and over 2,500 grilled cheese sandwiches – to people in need . First responders, linemen working around the clock, families who had no heat or electricity – everyone who was hungry got a hearty meal on the house. We crisscrossed towns like Gaylord, Mackinaw City, and Johannesburg, serving grilled cheese, tomato soup and coffee to warm folks up. It was exhausting but incredibly rewarding. The gratitude we saw (and the smiles when people bit into a warm grilled cheese) is something we’ll never forget.

What amazed us most was how our community pitched in alongside us. Local grocery stores donated ingredients, a propane supplier helped keep our truck running, and even folks who heard about our mission showed up to volunteer or contribute . “When you see a need, you have to step up. Many people pitched in to help,” Sarah says . This experience reminded us why we love our Michigan community so much – when times get tough, we all take care of each other. Mrs. C’s Gourmet Grilled Cheese was founded on spreading comfort and kindness, and during the ice storm we were honored to serve that mission beyond just our food. We’re back to our normal schedule now, but we carry with us the spirit of generosity and unity that this event inspired. Thank you to everyone who helped turn a difficult time into a story of community love and cheesy goodness!