Feed their Bodies, Fuel their Minds

GROTON, CT - The food workers and staff have taken a solution based approach to reduce the overall student debt, which is about $14,000 district wide. Food Service Director, Ernie Koschmieder, attributes his strong management team for taking initiative and creating a plan to support families who are going through financial hardships.

A recent vendor fair at Fitch High School raised $3,500 in which 100% of the proceeds are to be distributed among all nine schools to reduce the meal balances. The vendor fair, organized by Kristina Crandall, manager at Mary Morrisson Elementary, is just the beginning of the "Feed their bodies, fuel their minds" program. This program raises both money and awareness about everyday challenges that many families face when trying to meet basic needs and by assisting those families with the support of the community. Crandall, whose compassion for helping others, illustrates the importance of working together towards a common goal and utilizing the "many hats" that people who work with children often wear.

Koshmieder reported that local businesses have generously donated towards the program. They've received donations from Charter Oak Credit Union, Groton Lodge of Elks and Pequot Medical Center.

What's next? Based on the positive response from their events and their facebook page, they will promote the program through community picnics during the Summer Meals Program and will hold another vendor fair before winter break.

If you'd like to donate or for additional information, please go to their facebook page "Feed their bodies. Fuel their minds"