Hi, I’m Kylee McCumber, and I’d like to share my story with you. I’m thirteen years old and currently an eighth grader at Sky View Middle School in Leominster, MA. Three years ago, when I was just ten, I started an initiative called Kylee’s Kare Kits for Kidz, Inc. to help children in my community who face food insecurity. What began as a small effort has grown into something much bigger than I ever imagined.
Where It All Began
In September 2012, I noticed something at my school that sparked an idea—many of my classmates were eating breakfast at school every morning. I asked my grandmother why this was, and she explained that some children may not have enough food at home. That answer stuck with me.
I couldn’t stop thinking about those kids and how they might struggle over the weekend when school meals weren’t available. So, I decided I wanted to help. My grandmother and I talked to my school principal, researched the issue, and came up with a plan. That’s how Kylee’s Kare Kits for Kidz was born.
What Are Kare Kits?
Each week, we assemble “kare kits” filled with food that kids can easily prepare on their own. These kits include items like:
- Cereal
- Juice
- Fruit cups and applesauce
- Pudding cups
- Macaroni & cheese
- Chicken noodle soup
- Chef Boyardee or Spaghettios
- Granola bars
- Fruit snacks
- Peanut butter crackers
The contents of the kits vary each week depending on what we’re able to purchase on sale or receive through donations. The goal is to provide nutritious, kid-friendly food that will keep them going through the weekend.
How It’s Grown
When we first started, I set a small goal of helping 10 children each week. With the support of my family, friends, and the amazing Leominster community, we’ve surpassed that goal in ways I never dreamed of. Today, we provide food for 204 children every single week.
This has been a truly heartwarming experience for me. Seeing the smiles on the faces of the kids we help and knowing we’re making a difference in their lives is the best reward I could ask for.
The Power of Community
None of this would have been possible without the incredible support of so many people. From neighbors who donate food to local businesses that provide financial support, I’ve learned just how powerful a community can be when it comes together for a good cause.
It’s also shown me that age doesn’t matter when it comes to making a difference. If you have an idea and the passion to follow through, you can create change.
What’s Next for Kylee’s Kare Kits for Kidz?
As we move forward, I’d love to expand our reach and help even more children. Food insecurity is an issue that affects so many families, and I want to do everything I can to make sure no child has to go hungry.
If you’d like to help, there are so many ways to get involved:
- Donate food items
- Sponsor a kare kit
- Volunteer to pack kits
- Spread the word about our program
Every little bit helps, and together we can make a big difference!
A Heartfelt Thank You
To everyone who has supported Kylee’s Kare Kits for Kidz, thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your generosity, kindness, and encouragement have been the driving force behind this program. Together, we’re helping to ensure that no child in Leominster has to go without food over the weekend.
Let’s keep making a difference, one kare kit at a time.