AOK launches Project HOPE (Helping Other People Eat)

April 06, 2020
AOK staff is packing meals for Project HOPE. AOK staff is packing meals for Project HOPE.

When Lamar Schools closed March 17 due to the COVID-19 virus, AOK suspended caring for 25 (K-5) kids after school and closed Nathan’s Place, a safe hangout for about 15 older youth (grades 6-HS).

Several community organizations quickly responded to address the nutrition needs of children who rely on school or childcare for meals: Lamar School district provides Grab and Go meals for pick up at various locations for morning and noon meals, Monday-Friday and the local Snack Pack program is now using AOK’s after school location (Wolf Building, 801 E. 12th) on Fridays from 11a.m to 1 p.m. for their snack packs to be picked up.

AOK families were contacted via social media to determine level of need for assistance with feeding the kids.

As a result, AOK is delivering evening meals, Monday-Friday, to encourage social distancing and because transportation is a significant barrier to many financially strapped families.

If you would like to be added to the deliveries, notify AOK by 2 p.m. on Sunday and Wednesday with number of meals requested. To do this direct message @AOKLamar on Facebook or Instagram or email jerod@aokyouth.org.

At this point, those requesting meals are asked how many kids are in the house and how many adults. Meals are delivered for kids and no more than two adults.

Monday-Wednesday meals are packed and delivered on Monday and Thursday-Friday meals on Thursday.

During the COVID 19 crisis, priority is given to families with children. AOK is serving program youth and any parent/guardian needing food and are striving to meet all requests for food delivery if they have the resources.

AOK would like to thank Lamar Bank and Trust Company, several donors who wish to remain anonymous, Girl Scout Troop 70082, Lamar R-1 School District, LUMC Snack Pack Program as well those who have reached out to assist in various other ways.

To further assist with Project HOPE, donations may be made to About Our Kids, Inc., Post Office Box 375, Lamar, 64759 or via PayPal on the AOK website, www.aokyouth.org. All donations are tax deductible and go directly to Project HOPE.