Join Us: Food For Kids Hosts Fundraiser to Combat Rising Food Insecurity for Children

MERRILL, Wis. — For nearly eight years, Food For Kids has been a vital lifeline, offering meals over the weekend to elementary and middle school students in Merrill. This year, the program is supporting around 200 children, and that number is expected to grow.

Terra Holdridge, the program’s coordinator, expresses the urgency of this initiative. “It’s a need in our community, and it’s something I’m passionate about,” she says.

In 2020, the program reached just over 100 kids at six local schools. Last year, it jumped to more than 250. With budget cuts affecting many families, Holdridge anticipates even higher demand this year.

The outreach begins by sending letters to schools and families. Parents can then decide whether to sign their kids up for the program. Schools compile the numbers and share them with Food For Kids.

Each Wednesday, local groups like the Merrill Lions Club come together to prepare the food. Meals often include classics like mac and cheese or Chef Boyardee, balanced with nutritious snacks such as oatmeal, granola bars, and fruit.

“We try to offer healthy options that kids will actually eat,” says Holdridge. The team also adds fun treats like fruit roll-ups and Oreos, giving kids a taste of something special.

Funding comes entirely from community donations and grants. To help sustain the program, Food For Kids is hosting the “Love Your Neighbor Fundraising Banquet” on November 1. Attraverse the event has raffle prizes and a guest speaker, all designed to raise awareness and support.

“Last year, a school social worker delivered an impactful speech. We hope to hear something equally inspiring this time,” Holdridge reveals.

Tickets cost $50, covering a meal and helping fill gaps in funding. The event runs from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Les & Jim’s Lincoln Lanes. It’s a chance for the community to gather, share a meal, and connect over a common cause.

As hunger issues grow in communities across the U.S., initiatives like Food For Kids are more crucial than ever. According to recent statistics from the USDA, nearly 13 million children live in food-insecure households. Programs like this show the power of local efforts in combating hunger and supporting our youth.

For more details or to contribute, check out Food For Kids.

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