The Tri-Village Packers have been a beacon of community support since their inception in 2023, and their commitment to tackling food insecurity among school children is ramping up yet again. This year, they've expanded their food support program to include a Winter Break initiative, stepping up to fulfill the needs of underserved children throughout the entire school year. With a volunteer base and funding through donations and grants, they ensure that every donated dollar is transferred straight to purchasing food, as reported by the City of Upper Arlington government announcement.
Intending to feed kids who face the pangs of hunger when they step away from the classroom, the Packers have been diligent in bridging the gap, providing not just during Thanksgiving and Spring breaks, but now during the winter hiatus as well. Their program operates on the notion that a $100 donation can secure food for one child across all three school breaks. A commendable aspect of their program is the customized approach to preparing food packages, taking into account family size, the age of the recipients, and any dietary restrictions.
The organization encourages community involvement through a three-pronged approach. It starts with raising awareness, talking with friends and neighbors about the program to expand its support base and connect with those in need. Monetary gifts are essential, and the Packers make it easy to contribute to the UA Community Foundation's website, where one can select the "Tri-Village Packers Fund" from the provided drop-down menu. Furthermore, the community can also offer their time and effort as volunteers, with calls for assistance typically broadcast through the City Insight eNews ahead of each break.
The Packers' work wouldn't be possible without the collaborative efforts of multiple local organizations. The partnership includes the Tri-Village Lions, Northwest Kiwanis, UA Schools, and the City of UA, among others. Their collective mission is to nourish the bodies and futures of children in the region, working tirelessly to realize a community where no child is confronted with the harsh reality of hunger.
