PAINESVILLE – Harvey High School students involved in athletics and the marching band will now benefit from free meals at Lake Erie College before participating in certain after-school activities.
This initiative, part of the “Meals for Student Athletes” program, aims to support student performance by ensuring they have access to nutritious meals.
Originally launched in 2019, the program began as a collaboration between Cross Outreach Ministry and St. John Baptist Church’s Men in Mission Ministry, funded by grants, fundraisers, sponsorships, and donations.
This year, Lake Erie College and AVI Foodsystems have joined the effort.
AVI Foodsystems will provide the meals at discounted rates, with the “Meals for Student Athletes” program covering the costs.
Reverand Brian Jones of St. John Baptist Church expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “We are very excited about Lake Erie College and AVI Foodsystems seeing the vision and benefits of partnering together in support of providing nutritious meals for students engaged in competition. We hope to measure the outcomes so the program can be replicated and advanced statewide.”
Lake Erie College President Jennifer A. Schuller highlighted the college’s commitment to the community, saying, “Lake Erie College is proud to support our community’s youth through this partnership. By offering nourishing meals, we hope to empower students to perform their best both on and off the field.”
The program ensures that all student-athletes will receive meals before home games, while marching band members will be served after weekend competitions.
Superintendent Josh Englehart expressed the district’s gratitude for the collaboration, stating, “This effort not only directly benefits hundreds of our students by ensuring a great meal prior to competition, but also is a substantial help to many of our families who are tasked with many demands between work and home. This is a great example of our Painesville community coming together in the interest of our kids and families.”
Nick Marcarelli, AVI Foodsystems Resident Director, echoed this sentiment, adding, “AVI Foodsystems is thrilled to join forces with Lake Erie College and Meals for Student Athletes in this important initiative. By providing high-quality meals to these dedicated students, we’re supporting their success both on the field and in the classroom.”
The next meal will be served on August 23rd for the football team and the cheerleading squad.
