Solon Schools and Fire Department Team Up to Gather 3,200+ Pounds of Food for Harvest for Hunger: Join the Cause!

Solon Community Rallies to Support Families in Need

In Solon, Ohio, residents united once again to help families facing food insecurity. This year, they collected over 3,200 pounds of food during the Harvest for Hunger campaign. And more is still being donated!

The Solon Fire Department and the Solon Firefighters Local 2079 have run this food drive for many years. The program really took off with the partnership of Solon Schools since 2016. Together, they support the Greater Cleveland Food Bank.

Jake Fried, a firefighter and paramedic who coordinates the effort, expressed gratitude for the community’s generosity. "This year’s results showcase our collaboration," he noted. Fried emphasized that the fire department’s involvement spans over two decades, underlining how crucial community support is for success.

“Your food donations have made a real impact for many families in need,” he said. “We’re proud to be in a community that truly understands the value of giving back.”

The demand for food donations is on the rise. Tamara Strom, the Solon Schools Communications Director, shared that more families now qualify for the Free and Reduced Lunch program. Staff members have noticed some families struggling due to changing financial situations. Local food banks also highlight the increasing need for assistance.

While exact statistics on food insecurity in Solon are hard to pin down, Strom stressed that her focus lies on helping those who need it, rather than collecting numbers. “It’s about providing support to those in need, rather than tracking exact figures,” she explained.

Throughout the campaign, collection boxes were set up at each school for students and families to donate nonperishable food items. Although the official collection period ended in March, late donations are still welcomed by the fire department.

Fried shared his gratitude in a thank-you message to the community, looking forward to future collaborations. “Your support is invaluable. Together, we can continue making a positive difference in our neighbors’ lives.”

For those who may want to learn more about the needs of the community or find ways to help, check out resources from the Greater Cleveland Food Bank.

Community efforts like this not only address immediate hunger but also foster solidarity and compassion among residents. Together, they create a stronger and more supportive environment for everyone.

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