When Governor Mike DeWine announced the closing of schools on Thursday, March 12th one of the concerns raised was how would children who rely on free or reduced lunches eat.
Organizations and parents throughout Ohio have quickly jumped into action to solve the problem. Among those being two local groups in the Tri-Valley School district, Mommies on a Mission and Sarah’s Snacks.
Mommies on a Mission started with Katie Miller asking Ali Prince-Bendure if she wanted to help with making lunches for the Dresden kids. Of course, Ali was all in. Meanwhile, Ali’s best friend, Lindsay Stanbery, was already working on lunches for the kids in the Frazeysburg/Nashport area. Mommies on a Mission is seven strong with Ali, Katie, Stephanie Brennen, Carrie Schott, Amy Anderson, Renae Lacy, and Caryl Lattimer and a few extras that have stepped in to help as well.
Within three hours after putting a post out on Facebook on Friday (March 12) there were already people delivering donations to their homes and by Monday they were up and running with lunches ready for the week. During the first week about an average of 140 lunches are being supplied a day between the two groups.
“The Dresden and surrounding areas have responded to every need and have graciously donated so much food and money it has been absolutely heartwarming!” stated Ali.
“We are at the Municipal Building Monday – Friday from 11am – 1pm. Anyone (no matter the age) that is in need of a lunch is more than welcome to “drive-thru” the back parking lot and we will be there to serve you. Donations can also be dropped off at that time.”
Some of the donations that are needed include juice boxes/pouches, snack items, Go-gurts/yogurt and fruit cups.
