Community champions raise $40K to keep kids fed over summer
Last summer, Brandywine Heights Area School District launched its first-ever Feeding Futures: Grab & Go Summer Meal Program, fueled by a competitive $28,000 grant from No Kid Hungry, making it the only school district in Pennsylvania to receive the award. The program’s impact was immediate: over 22,000 free meals served in just nine weeks, reaching hundreds of children across the district who may have otherwise gone without during the summer break. That initiative not only fed students, it fed hope.
Fast forward to April 2025, and the story took an even more remarkable turn. At the April 7 school board meeting, the nonprofit Friends of Brandywine — a local organization founded in 2020 to support families in need — presented a $40,000 check to the district. Every dollar came from community fundraising, donations and a shared commitment to making sure this program continues.
“This is what happens when people look out for one another,” said Gina Oberto-Weller, executive assistant to the superintendent. “The program began with a grant, but it’s the heart of this community that’s keeping it going. It’s neighbors helping neighbors, and students feeling seen and supported, even when school is out.”
The program has already received statewide recognition, including the School Operations Impact Award from Pennsylvania Association of School Business Officials (PASBO) and a No Kid Hungry Summer Meals Hero spotlight. But for Brandywine Heights, the biggest win is the outpouring of support from the local community, especially Friends of Brandywine.
“This is a feel-good moment that’s rooted in real need,” added Oberto-Weller. “And it’s proof that when our community comes together, we can do incredible things for our kids.”
As plans ramp up for summer 2025, the district remains focused on growing the program and reaching even more students — thanks to the power of community and a whole lot of heart. The district wants to express sincere gratitude to the Friends of Brandywine for making this program possible for another year and making sure that kids in our community won’t go hungry this summer.