Every year CHA recognizes those that go above and beyond to help food-insecure children. The following partners were honored at this year’s Menu of Hope was a 2023 Program of the Year.
School Breakfast Program of the Year – Mad River Local Schools, Montgomery County
CHA and Mad River Local Schools have had a relationship for over 12 years with a variety of programming. Nearly five years ago, the middle school adopted a Breakfast in the Classroom model, which ended up increasing breakfast participation and proved beneficial in preparing students for the day. Building on this success they have implemented breakfast programs throughout other buildings in their district.
Afterschool Program of the Year – Boys & Girls Club of Northeast Ohio – Steve Wise Club, Summit County
During the pandemic the Steve Wise Club, located in Akron, began partnering with CHA to distribute ready to eat meals. Children come to the club five days a week from surrounding Akron schools for afterschool care, at which they are given nutritious meals and snacks. The staff are full of energy and welcoming to every child in their care.
Summer Program of the Year – Blanchester Public Library, Clinton County
Blanchester Public Library began partnering with CHA in 2022, to get assistance in providing summer meals to area children. From their strong compliance efforts to creating their own program advertising and systems; our work together has been incredibly effective. CHA is having a great impact in the Blanchester area due to their drive to create a fun, safe, and enriching food service at the library.
Childcare Center of the Year – Itsy Bitsy Daycare, Fairfield County
Itsy Bitsy Daycare opened during the pandemic and began partnering with CHA in 2021 when they needed help to remain open to serve the community. They offer a variety of foods, and encourage the children to try new foods. The staff works to seek resources so that the center can provide the best activities for their families and offer nutrition education opportunities.
In-Home Provider of the Year – Charlotte Walls – Kids Cover Childcare, Muskingum County
Charlotte Walls offers an in-home daycare setting, and has been working with CHA for over seven years. She and her husband provide a fantastic daycare environment, and are well known in their area. They are well organized, professional, and offer a kid-friendly educational space. Charlotte takes the nutrition education she learns and passes that on to the families of the children in her care.
Weekend Meals Program of the Year – West Mount Elementary, Franklin County
Tyfini Mcgowan, Reading Intervention Specialist at West Mound Street Elementary, connected with CHA in 2022 to obtain weekend meals for the students at her school where 100% of the students qualify for free or reduced-priced meals. Every week over 300 students are benefiting from the program, and going home on the weekends with much needed nutrition.
Everyone as CHA is so grateful for all the work these providers do to help bring meals to Ohio’s children.