The Mentor School Food Market will distribute more than 100,000 pounds of produce on April 25th. (Courtesy of Joe Grabban)
The Mentor School Food Market Initiative, which provides nutritional assistance to local residents in need, is approaching a major milestone: its one-year anniversary.
April 25th will be the 11th time school district members, students and community members have distributed fresh food to those in need. At the food market, he expects to have more than 100,000 pounds of fresh produce distributed to the community within one calendar year.
“The 11th Mentor Schools Food Market event marks an important milestone in our commitment to supporting our community,” said Mentor Schools Superintendent Craig Heath. “This event will help Mentor School distribute over 100,000 pounds of fresh food to those in need.”
Since June 29, 2023, the district has partnered with the Greater Cleveland Food Bank, United Way of Lake County, the City of Mentor and Heinen's to distribute fresh food to local residents on the fourth Thursday of each month.
This event is free and open to all community members in need. It will be held on the Mentor High School campus in front of Jerome T. Osborn Stadium, 8600 Munson Road.
Community members can pick up a variety of bagged fresh produce between noon and 2 p.m.
Highlights from the past 10 events include a single day where more than 12,609 pounds of produce was distributed.
So far, the market has provided 97,059 pounds of fresh food to 2,359 families, supporting 3,425 adults, including 2,993 children and 1,630 seniors.
“Local business and community leaders, including City Manager Ken Felipiak, Mentor Superintendent Craig Heath, Mentor Police and Fire Chiefs, and United Way Lake County Executive Director Dione Dimetro, are supporting people in need. It's truly inspiring to see them lined up with students who are actively engaged in service to the… said Joe Grabban, school workforce development director. “Their unwavering dedication reflects the spirit of compassion that characterizes our city.
“Additionally, our students, including those from the National Honor Society, Mentor Fire EMT Academy, and Cardinal Works programs, play a vital role in each of our food market events,” Grabban added. “Their involvement highlights the power of collaboration and community engagement. Together, we foster a culture of giving back and support.”
