Kalasho Education and Youth Services partnered with the Girl Scouts of Southeastern Michigan to distribute “MINDful giving boxes” filled with groceries and essential items to families in need.
“It’s our civic duty as Michigan residents to ensure that no one is left hungry, and to be a small part of that joint effort with this community has been really empowering,” said Sumaiya Ahmed Sheikh, Executive Director of Kalasho Education and Youth Services.
The initiative not only provides food assistance but also creates meaningful volunteer opportunities for Girl Scouts of all ages.
Along with distributing food boxes, scouts personalized their contributions by creating drawings and writing messages for recipient families.
“After I do all of this stuff, I like watching how happy they are,” said Oliviana Freeman, a participating Girl Scout.
Fellow Scout Rylee Carnahan added, “I think everyone deserves to have a good Thanksgiving and good holidays.”
The program serves a dual purpose of addressing immediate needs while teaching young volunteers about community service and food insecurity.
“Even in our council we have some girls who may experience food insecurity,” said Kaylyn Borucki of the Girl Scouts of Southeastern Michigan. “For everyone who wanted to be able to be involved is super important for them to understand that not everyone has those resources and that they have the ability to make a difference.”
Borucki emphasized the long-term impact of these experiences on young volunteers -- “They will grow up and remember these days and life lessons.”
Additional food distribution events are planned for the future.
While specific dates have not been announced, interested community members can find updated information on the Kalasho Education and Youth Services website.