Racine Organization Makes a Big Impact: Donating 1.2 Million Pounds of Food to Support 11,000 Seniors in 2024

In Racine, something big is happening. One food donation at a time, fewer people are going hungry. A local organization, Failure Is Not An Option (F.I.N.A.O.), has made it their mission to help the community for over ten years, especially through their food pantry.

In 2024 alone, F.I.N.A.O. donated an impressive 1.2 million pounds of food. They assisted 11,000 seniors and provided countless prepared meals. Debra Brown, the founder of F.I.N.A.O. and co-pastor at Kingdom Builders Ministries, emphasizes the importance of addressing both spiritual and physical needs. “Not only is there a spiritual need in people’s lives but also a natural need,” she explains.

F.I.N.A.O. started to support seniors, students, and families facing hunger in the Racine area. Brown noted that many children struggle in school because they don’t have enough food. To tackle this issue, their programs have a simple rule: no questions asked. On Tuesdays and Fridays, seniors aged 65 and older can visit their headquarters at 7207 Rapids Dr. to pick up food. They can do this once a week, but younger individuals can pick up food for their senior relatives too.

One participant, Betty, shares her experience: “My sister doesn’t have a car, and she lives off her Social Security. I come to help her and bring her food.” This kind of support is invaluable for many in the community.

On top of their regular food distribution, F.I.N.A.O. also provides ‘Snack Sacks,’ which are bags filled with enough food to feed a family of four. These are handed out every Monday outside local high schools, offering much-needed support to students and their families.

Betty mentioned how important the program is for her sister, saying, “She would be lost without it.” F.I.N.A.O. isn’t just about food, though. They also have a program called Fuel for Thought, an after-school book club that promotes literacy and moms and dads bond with their kids during story hour.

Libby Adams, a floor manager at F.I.N.A.O., highlighted that it’s a hands-on experience for families, making it more engaging. Yes, families can take home meals, which is an extra treat for them.

As more people learn about F.I.N.A.O., the demand for their services grows. Debra Brown and her team are determined to keep supplying food as long as there are people in need. They continue organizing events like toy drives and adult programs, all while focusing on their core mission of fighting hunger in Racine.

F.I.N.A.O. stands as a beacon of hope in Racine. Through their dedicated efforts, they remind us that community support can make a world of difference.

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