West Michigan “goes orange” for National Nutrition Month

Nonprofit

Mar 4

During National Nutrition Month this March, Kids’ Food Basket (KFB) invites West Michigan to “Go Orange.” This annual effort raises awareness for childhood hunger while providing healthy, nourishing meals and essential resources to the community. Orange is the color representing childhood hunger awareness.

Presented by PNC Bank for the ninth consecutive year, the KFB campaign is a month-long effort that challenges the community to get involved in its mission to nourish kids to reach their full potential through donations, wish list drives, volunteerism, and more. In addition to its community food distribution and education programs, KFB serves about 11,000 healthy evening meals to 61 schools in Kent, Muskegon, Ottawa, and Allegan counties.

“PNC is honored to once again be teaming up with Kids’ Food Basket to support Go Orange month,” said Sean Welsh, Regional President for Western Michigan, PNC Bank. “The need for nourishing food in our community is greater than ever, and the terrific folks at Kids’ Food Basket are stepping up to answer the call.”

Throughout March, local businesses, including Lacks Enterprise, ADAC Automotive, RE/MAX Lakeshore, and Orange Theory, will compete to help break down barriers to food equity in West Michigan. Activities include decorating bags, advocating online, and hosting fundraising events.

Local schools in West Michigan, such as all three Forest Hills High Schools, North Muskegon Middle School, and Northern Trails 5/6, will engage with the campaign. Students will learn about food insecurity and be connected to immediate actions, such as wish list drives, that can make a difference.

Everyone can participate in Go Orange by rounding up their bill or purchasing a sack supper icon for $2 at a participating business, decorating brown bags for sack suppers, or scheduling a volunteer shift at one of KFB’s three locations in Kent, Muskegon, or Ottawa counties. This year, KFB also has a new Amazon Wish List to provide much-needed supplies for its operations.

“We are living in unprecedented times where many in the community are wondering how to help our neighbors through tough situations,” said Tamara VanderArk-Potter, Vice President of Philanthropy, Kids’ Food Basket. “We have a big fundraising goal of $140,000 this March, and we know we can get there, one donation at a time, one neighbor at a time, to create a more nourished future for West Michigan.”

To learn more, visit https://kidsfoodbasket.org/go-orange/.