ASHLAND — The No Child Goes Hungry fundraiser takes aim at the local school lunch programming, making sure every student has a hot meal for lunch no matter their parent or guardian’s income.
Nichole Aber, who created this fundraiser for the Ashland community, began her journey about six months ago with one simple objective.
“Our initial goal was to eliminate lunch debt in the city of Ashland.” Aber said. “They should never be withheld food due to their parent’s ability or inability to pay.”
Donations poured in from the community. More than $3,500 was raised within the first 24 hours. In a matter of a couple weeks, donations surpassed $5,000.
“That’s when I got the ball rolling and met with the superintendent and explained that we had this donation to eliminate the lunch debt so that every kid got the same hot meal,” Aber said.
Aber established a second numerical goal of $20,000. That goal was reached within a few months.
“Since we’ve accomplished the second goal of $20,000, I still have companies and individuals contacting me and asking me to be a part of the fundraising and raise awareness of everything,” Aber said. “I’ve decided to establish another fund that will help other local schools.
“The fund we have now is just for the city schools, so we’re going to try and set up another fun to help other local schools in similar situations or similar policies to what Ashland’s were.”
The No Child Goes Hungry fundraiser continues to look for donations from gracious community members. Aber spoke about how helpful these donations can be to local families.
“I’ve heard stories from students who this has affected,” Aber said. “Parents and grandparents have even contacted me just about the humiliation kids face when their kids are told they aren’t allowed to have a meal or have to give food back.
“The goal was to stop kids from ever having to be in this position.”
The No Child Goes Hungry fundraiser plans to raise awareness this June at Ashland Ohio Balloonfest beginning on Thursday, June 27.
