Reinbeck 4-H helps pack meals

From left to right, Kennedy Brant, Ellie Sieh, Katrina Hemann, Kinzee Heman

Twelve Reinbeck 4-H youth and six adult 4-H volunteers gathered at the United Church of Christ in Reinbeck on September 25 to package meals for the hungry which were distributed to the Northeast Iowa Food Bank in Waterloo, and local food pantries in Reinbeck, Gladbrook and Traer.

The Reinbeck United Church of Christ partnered with Outreach, Inc. hosting the meal packaging event. The meals are a nutritious blend of macaroni, soy, and a vitamin enriched cheese blend designed for Outreach by Iowa State University’s Food Science Department. Participants surrounded tables made into a simple, and fun assembly line.

The event, held on September 25 and 26, consisted of volunteers from several local area groups, including the Black Hawk Nighthawks 4-H club, the Reinbeck Clover Kids 4-H club, the UCC and Presbyterian churches, the Reinbeck Lions club, PEO and the Women’s Club.

Over 12,000 nutritious macaroni and cheese meals were packaged throughout the event.

“Community service is an important part of our 4-H club,” 4-H Leader Katie Lubbert said. “Volunteering can teach youth so many skills, from leadership to self-esteem and pride in their community. Plus, when we can make it fun, like this meal packing event, it always helps youth of all ages gain from the experience.”

From left to right, Reese Schneider, Ryker Devore, Evan Muller

4-H gives kids and teens opportunities to experience life skills and to practice them in a safe environment with caring adults. Reinbeck’s two 4-H clubs are open to all youth and are currently accepting new members.

The Black Hawk Nighthawks 4-H club is a group of approximately 20 youth grades 4th-12th who are learning leadership, citizenship and life skills offered through a monthly club setting. To learn more about the Black Hawk Nighthawks email blackhawknighthawk4h@gmail.com.

The Reinbeck Clover Kids 4-H club includes a very energetic group of K-3rd graders. Clover Kids is a fun 4-H program that fosters positive relationships and builds valuable life skills through a variety of hands-on activities. To learn more about the Reinbeck Clover Kids, email reinbeckck@gmail.com.

Iowa 4-H is the youth development program of Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. To learn more about the Iowa 4-H program, visit https://www.extension.iastate.edu/4h/.