Hand2Hand

Program survey results are rolling in! What you do truly?MATTERS?in the lives of these students! So far, we've received?around 500 survey responses from Hand2Hand teachers and administrators,?and we’re excited to share a few of their heartfelt words:

?? Church Partner Spotlight ?? Fellowship Reformed Hudsonville has been faithfully partnering with Hand2Hand since 2017, serving more than 200 students at Godwin Heights Public Schools. A special shoutout to Dave Feenstra, their incredible Hand2Hand coordinator! After 30 years as the principal at Hudsonville High School, he retired and jumped into serving kids through Hand2Hand. The way he continues to care for students in our community inspires us. Thank you for being a light and making a difference! ??

It's National Recycling Day, and we're proud to do our part! ?? Have you noticed the green recycling bin behind our building? We love reusing whenever we can and recycling whenever possible — every little bit makes a difference!

Every Hand2Hand backpack is packed with love and intention, providing students with nutritious food to bridge the gap of weekend hunger. Each bag contains enough food for breakfast, lunch/dinner, and snacks—helping kids return to school on Monday nourished and ready to learn.

We are deeply honored to receive the Distinguished Service Award from Jim Swoboda, President of the Kentwood Public School Education Foundation! This award recognizes those who generously give their time, talents, or financial support to enhance the educational experience of Kentwood students. A huge thank you to our Kentwood church partners who joined us for this special moment! Feeding over 1,500 kids in Kentwood is truly a team effort, and we are beyond grateful for the faithful partnerships that make it all possible.

Thank you, Ada Bible Church, for an inspiring and encouraging day! Our team gathered with other local ministries and nonprofits to hear powerful speakers, be refreshed in our faith, and share meaningful moments together. We're so grateful for the opportunity to grow in fellowship and be strengthened in our mission.

Did you know that sharing a meal together as a family can have a HUGE impact on kids? Studies show that regular family meals lead to: ? Improved grades ? Stronger family bonds ? Better nutrition ? A decrease in negative behaviors ? Improved mental health At Hand2Hand, we want to help families experience these benefits! That’s why we include recipe cards in our weekend backpacks—making it easy for families to cook and enjoy meals together. https://lnkd.in/dkuVA_x

Hand2Hand supports March is Reading Month with donated books! ?? Thanks to a generous donation, Hand2Hand is providing FREE books for kids! Some of these books will be sent home with Hand2Hand students, while others will be available for checkout in school libraries. We’re committed to ensuring kids are well-fed over the weekend, as we know it’s crucial to their well-being and their ability to learn. We are thrilled to offer this wonderful resource to encourage learning, spark imagination, and support kids on their reading journey! ??

Yesterday, our Hand2Hand staff, church partners, school partners, and volunteers participated in a poverty simulation hosted by Access of West Michigan. This immersive experience gave us a glimpse into the daily struggles individuals in poverty face — navigating barriers like transportation, child care, housing costs, and limited job availability. Within minutes, we felt anxious, frustrated, and humbled as we struggled to complete day-to-day tasks. This powerful simulation deepened our understanding and strengthened our passion to stand in the gap for kids facing weekend hunger. Together, we continue to be the hands and feet of Christ — one backpack at a time.

We're dreaming about warmer days ahead! Join us at the Hand2Hand Golf Outing, supporting West Michigan kids. Early bird deals end on Monday, March 3. Don't miss your chance to reserve your spot at the best pricing! ?? ?? h2hkids.org/golf