Letter to the editor: Thanks for helping Alle-Kiski kids

As the co-founder of Project SEED, I would like to extend a sincere thank-you for the tremendous support and generosity we have received from so many individuals, businesses, clubs and organizations in the Alle-Kiski Valley and beyond.

We just completed our eighth year of providing food to hungry children in the New Kensington-Arnold area. Our weekend backpack program, Project SEED, ensures that children who rely on the lunch program at their schools continue to have Something to Eat Every Day (SEED) by providing a bag of food to take home on Fridays. Since its inception in 2013, Project SEED has provided more than 68,000 bags of food at a cost of well over $200,000.

Our website, somethingtoeateveryday.org, proudly displays a list of contributors and community partners who have donated. Some sent money, some conducted food drives, raffles or events, and others “adopted” a child or classroom for the year. Right after covid-19 restrictions eased, a local bar/restaurant conducted an event and donated all tips to Project SEED, and the owners then matched the donation. That giving spirit is also displayed every week by our dedicated workers and volunteers.

If you grew up in this valley as I did, you have seen community spirit and compassion for others displayed over and over again. Project SEED is one more example of what makes this area so special.

I know I speak for the children who joyfully hop on the school bus every Friday with food in their backpacks when I say, “Thank you all so much!”

Joanne Cecchi

New Kensington