Feed the Soul: Benner Beats Hunger Brings Summer Meals to Racine Families
A Flavorful Solution to Summertime Hunger
Ah, summer! A season of sunshine, laughter, and—let’s face it—hungry little bellies eager for nourishment. In Racine, Wisconsin, a heartwarming initiative called Benner Beats Hunger is stepping up to ensure that no child goes hungry during the break from school. With the school doors closed, the pang of hunger can echo even louder, particularly in communities grappling with high poverty rates. But fear not—community members are fired up to serve delicious meals to families in need.
Discovering Benner Beats Hunger
Located at the Geneva Street COP House, this delightful program is not only dishing out food; it’s cooking up connections. From now until August, families can enjoy FREE lunches at 11:45 a.m. and dinners at 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. The program, inspired by community-oriented policing officer Gabrielle Hood’s aunt, Julie Benner, aims to mend the gap left by federal meal programs that typically only operate during the school year.
Why It Works:
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Family-Friendly: Every meal is designed not just for children but for the entire family, promoting a comforting dining experience. Nothing says “welcome home” like mealtime together!
- Healthy and Wholesome: A coalition of local organizations, including the United Way and the Milwaukee Center for Independence, teams up to bring nourishing, crave-worthy meals to the table.
Creating a Community Connection
For parents like Mya Garcia, who have already sampled the program, the experience has been nothing short of transformative. “I think it’s great for the children to eat with their parents and feel more comfortable,” she says. It’s more than just a meal; it’s about fostering a healthy family dynamic.
Join the Feast!
However, the potluck does have room for more! Funded by community partners, the initiative could always use a few extra hands—or some generous donations. Think juice boxes, granola bars, and flats of water. Every bit helps to keep the joy of shared meals alive.
How You Can Help:
- Donate Items: Bring in juice boxes, granola bars, or flats of water to support the meal program.
- Spread the Word: Share the initiative with friends and family to help build awareness in the community.
Why It Matters
This isn’t just about feeding empty stomachs; it’s about nourishing souls and building bonds. Benner Beats Hunger serves as a crucial reminder that even in tough times, communities can come together to ensure that every child and family has access to wholesome meals. So, whether you’re a resident of Racine or simply inspired by the food-sharing spirit, remember: a well-fed community is a thriving community.
Let’s dig into summer with full plates and happy hearts! 🍽️
Covers wellness, nutrition, mental health, and daily life tips.
Bio: Talia brings a background in health journalism and holistic living to help readers live better, one tip at a time.