The Free Press
MANKATO — A shipment of food was heading from Mankato to Haiti Monday, thanks to the local efforts of volunteers and businesses.
More than $32,000 was raised and 110,000 meals were packaged between Thursday and Saturday by Kids Against Hunger to provide food to Haiti’s earthquake victims.
The Mankato chapter of Kids Against Hunger began a food program for Haiti about five years ago. Formulated by food scientists, a food package provides in a 1-cup serving, enough nutrition for one person for one day.
The shipment that left Mankato for Haiti Monday is expected to arrive in about four or five days.
Three Eagles Communications’ four radio stations joined forces with Kids Against Hunger to promote the three-day relief effort, raise funds and recruit volunteers to package meals for earthquake victims in Haiti.
Madison East Center and Mapleton Marine donated a portion of 5,600
square feet of space next to the mall’s main entrance. Other businesses also pitched in. Sign Solutions donated a large “Haiti Relief Effort” sign to draw attention to the location; Papa John’s Pizza provided food for volunteers; Jerry’s Body Shop donated time and materials to fix a donated Ford Taurus that brought in $1,300 during a radio auction. MEI matched weekend donations in the amount of $10,000.
Along with the Madison East effort, other groups organized to raise money for Kids Against Hunger. Members of the Minnesota State women’s track and field team set up a table at the MSU men’s hockey games Friday and Saturday at the Verizon Wireless Center and collected donations. The team collected $1,085, coach Jen Blue said.
The Salvation Army in Mankato also is collecting money donations at this time. Contributions may be sent to: The Salvation Army Haiti Relief Effort, 700 S. Riverfront Drive, Mankato, MN 56001.
