Since its founding in 2015, when Liz and Paul Meeker learned of the need to ensure that no child in the Crestwood Local School District went hungry, Kids Weekend Meals (KWM) has served needy families. At that time, they learned that kids who relied on free or reduced breakfasts and lunches during school days often went hungry at home. In order to help alleviate hunger during weekends and breaks from school, the Meekers rallied a team of volunteers to collect, pack and distribute healthy breakfasts, lunches and snacks to ensure that no child in the Crestwood Local School District went hungry during weekends and breaks from school.
Not having enough to heat isn’t just a problem for growing bodies – it also affects learning. Research shows that children are better able to learn when they’re well-nourished and not distracted by hunger. Furthermore, eating healthy meals has been linked to higher grades, better memory, better behavior, and faster information processing. So the simple act of providing a solution to basic need – food — also provides children with the ability to learn and flourish.
Just four years ago, KWM assisted 49 families and 115 children. Soon the need increased to 185 kids. With today’s economic climate, the number of families that rely on KWM is again on the rise. And Kids Weekend Meals relies on a community of volunteers and contributors to continue serving families each year.
To that end once again, KWM will be hosting a Thanksgiving Plunge at 9 am on Thanksgiving morning into a lake at the B Ranch, owned by Todd and Cheryl Brugmann. The Thanksgiving Plunge provides more than just bragging rights. Before tucking into a big meal later that day, jumpers and those who sponsor them have the opportunity to ensure that no child goes without a meal now or in the coming year.
The goal of this year’s event is to raise $20,000 to support Kids Weekend Meals into 2026. The amount, when added to remaining balance for 2025, brings KWM closer to the $45,000 needed to feed the 185 children in 2026, as well as those who may need additional help due to the loss benefits due to current economic struggles.
Here’s how you can help: Encourage friends, families, church groups or co-workers to be part of the plunge. Get your team together — or go hard-core and jump by yourself! Before the event, find sponsors who will commit to a pledging an amount that will push you and your team into the water for an excellent cause.
In addition, KWM volunteer Pete Pruszynski is approaching businesses and organizations to be partnered with individual participants to match fundraising efforts. As an example: if a plunging team or individual raises $250 in sponsorships and XYZ Business would match the $250, the total amount raised for KWM is an incredible $500, proving that you can be part of a team even if you’re unable to jump in the lake! Contact Pruszynski at (330) 607-4102 to sign up, support an individual or team, or for more event details.
If you need more information about KWM or would like to volunteer, visit the Kids Weekend Meals page on Facebook to a private message to the group. To donate to KWM, send a check to: Kids Weekend Meals, C/O Liz Meeker, 4317 Parkwood Avenue, Mantua, OH 44255.
