Local food insecurities prompts Good Samaritan to start giving early, public is invited to help

KEARNEY–CHI Health Good Samaritan is increasing its giving goal this year and, for the first time, asking the community to join. In response to increasing local food insecurities, Project Snowflake, the hospital’s annual employee giving drive, is launching early. The expanded effort will provide Thanksgiving meals to families in need and stock local food pantries.

“Project Snowflake, our beloved tradition of giving back, is in its 36th year. Our employees collect much-needed items—food, hygiene products, toys and money—to support local nonprofits dedicated to caring for the most vulnerable in our community,” says Curt Coleman, president CHI Health Good Samaritan. “This year, the need is even more significant, especially for our local food pantries. So, we are redoubling our efforts, extending our timeframe and inviting the community to join us.”

Staff are gathering canned food items to assemble a variety of “meals-in-a-bag.” All the ingredients families need to bake Thanksgiving dinner will be included. The bags will be distributed through CASA and the Jubilee Center.

The public can give to the effort on Sat., Nov. 22 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at Kearney’s HyVee. The AirCare and Care Management teams, in partnership with Apollo Medflight, will be collecting canned food donations at the store’s entrance. While a shopping list of needed items will be available, all canned food contributions are appreciated.

Then, in a push to restock local food pantries for the Christmas season, Project Snowflake collection boxes will be placed at the main entrances of Good Samaritan and CHI Health Clinics. The community is encouraged to donate non-perishable food items starting Nov. 20 through Dec. 11.

Last year, hospital employees donated more than $7,700 in food, products and monetary gifts to area nonprofit organizations through Project Snowflake. 

“Like a snowflake, each contribution—no matter how small—collects to make a powerful impact,” says Coleman. “We are hoping for a flurry of food to help families in need this year. Please join us!”