Connecting Kids To Meals Inc.

Overview

Connecting Kids To Meals Inc. is a non-profit organization based in Toledo, Ohio, dedicated to providing hot, nutritious meals at no cost to children in low-income and underserved areas throughout Northwest Ohio.

History and Mission

Founded in 2002, the organization's mission is to combat childhood hunger by delivering meals to sites where children gather, such as schools, libraries, community centers, and other locations. Formerly known as Feed Lucas County Children, Connecting Kids To Meals has served over 6 million meals since its inception, impacting the lives of numerous children in the region.

Programs and Services

The organization operates several meal programs:

• Afterschool Meal Program: Provides approximately 2,300 meals daily at over 85 partner locations during the academic year.
• Summer Food Service Program (SFSP): Offers meals at over 150 locations during the summer, serving up to 6,000 meals per day.
• Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP): Supports after-school meal services.

These programs are crucial in addressing child hunger, especially during out-of-school times when access to meals can be limited. The meals are prepared in a state-of-the-art kitchen shared with Cherry Street Mission Ministries.

Impact and Achievements

Research highlights the importance of nutrition in preventing academic, behavioral, and health issues among children. Connecting Kids To Meals has been recognized for its outstanding contributions, including the 2021 Turnip The Beet Award and the 2022 Northwest Ohio Nonprofit Excellence Award for Collaboration. In 2023, Wendi R. Huntley, the President and CEO, was selected as an Out-Of-School Time Meals Champion by No Kid Hungry, further underscoring the organization's significant impact.

Financial Support and Volunteers

While the organization receives reimbursements through USDA Child Nutrition Programs and grants, it relies heavily on community donations and volunteers to fulfill its mission. Volunteers contribute by helping with meal packaging, distribution, and other operational tasks.

Community Engagement

Connecting Kids To Meals promotes awareness and engagement through events like the Souper Bowl of Caring and Hunger Action Month. The organization encourages community participation, including donations and volunteering, to ensure that no child in Northwest Ohio goes hungry.