The NCBC food booth during the Heritage Hill tour is more than a celebration of meatball-rolling, veggie chili and delicious desserts I could never dream of baking. Funds raised through the food booth sales are donated each year to support several nonprofit organizations.

This year, we added a few new groups to the list, including the Grand Rapids Public Schools homeless students program. This assistance program is coordinated by Evelyn Kirchgessner from the GRPS Franklin campus. Throughout the year, Evelyn collects toys, books, school supplies, backpacks, bus passes, clothes and money/gift cards for children and their families living in the city’s homeless shelters. The assistance program supports people who are in the process of rebuilding their lives and finding permanent housing.

This is a very worthwhile program, where our October generosity can make a tremendous difference for our youngest neighbors all year long. For more information, call 616-819-2519.