CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
The Wal-Mart Distribution Center bestowed Umatilla Morrow Head Start Inc. (UMCHS) with a much-needed food donation of 70 frozen turkeys to be distributed to high-risk families and children.
Every day UMCHS prepares and serves nutritious meals family-style for children in 37 classrooms, encouraging a fondness for vegetables and healthy options. This supports Head Start’s commitment to supporting children in maintaining a healthy weight and active lifestyle.
The turkey donation has allowed teachers to expand this practice into the children’s home, allowing the families to prepare a healthy home cooked meal.
“I don’t know anyone who can do it all on their own,” said Family Engagement Director Suellen Whitlock. “We know many families rely on others to accomplish the day’s tasks, whether it’s a neighbor helping shovel our sidewalks or even helping get our children to school when we can’t get the car out of the drive way.”
“Healthy meals are vital for brain development and learning in infancy and early childhood and the team at Walmart Distribution Center recognizes that even a lack of access to nutritious meals can actually put children at a disadvantage in learning and school-readiness, not to mention that families could just use a little help,” said UMCHS Executive Director Maureen McGrath.
Whitlock, who engages families across the region, said the donation of turkeys is more than just a meal.
“It’s an opportunity for families to gather, grow together, or expand their support network by inviting a friend or neighbor over for a warm meal on a cold day to say thanks,” Whitlock said. “Because during these cold months we all rely a little on each other and those in our community.”
Individuals and community organizations can help ensure our children and those who care for them are given all the tools they need to create healthy and happy futures by going to UMCHS.org to explore the many more ways to access services, partner and donate.
For more information on how you too can donate to help children and families in our community or to access services, please contact Samantha Shaw at sshaw@umchs.org , call 541.564.6878, or go to UMCHS.org.
