COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX) — An upcoming service project will bring children and families together to assemble meal kits for Central Ohio neighbors who receive housing assistance.
Seeds of Caring is partnering with Community Housing Network for an event this weekend, where the group will put together Chicken & Dumplings meal kits. The event includes hands-on activities that help kids and their families learn about the importance of stable housing and food access, as well as explore some of the daily challenges their neighbors face.
This meal kit project comes at a time when many Central Ohio families are feeling the effects of changes in SNAP benefits that have increased pressure on food budgets, making grocery shopping harder for those already struggling financially. Organizers say the kits not only offer residents some immediate assistance, but also the chance to welcome friends and family into their home for a shared meal.
“Permanent, supportive housing is about more than having a place to live. It’s about helping our residents build healthy, connected and hopeful lives. The meal kits assembled by Seeds of Caring volunteers offer our residents an opportunity to enjoy a delicious meal, share time with loved ones and create meaningful moments in their homes,” said Ann Bischoff, CEO of Community Housing Network.
For this service project, young volunteers get to see their role in community service from a deeper perspective, helping prepare kitchens while also making family gatherings and new traditions possible.
“We want children to see that caring for our neighbors goes beyond meeting a basic need. It’s also about helping people feel welcome, valued and connected. By assembling these meal kits, kids are learning that something as simple as sharing a home-cooked meal can bring people together and make a house feel a little more like home,” said Brandy Jemczura, founder and executive director of Seeds of Caring.
The event highlights the ongoing partnership between Seeds of Caring and Community Housing Network, whose mission is to help Central Ohioans find and maintain affordable housing and support people experiencing obstacles such as homelessness, mental illness or substance use disorders.
Information about additional volunteer opportunities can be found here.
Dining and Cooking