In this episode of Galesburg’s Morning News, we talked with with Adam Sampson, CEO of the Knox County YMCA, and Melissa Bryant, Associate Executive Director, about their new partnership with the United Way of Knox County to expand nutritious meal access for local youth starting in the 2025-2026 school year.
Partnership Transition and Program Management
- The YMCA takes over the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) from United Way, which shifts to fundraising, serving 250 children daily with five-component cold meals (e.g., pita pizza, carrot sticks, milk) prepared and delivered by YMCA staff.
- Melissa Bryant emphasized tailoring food choices to kids’ preferences, learned over 12 years, to boost participation.
Expansion to Teens
- A new 2,500 sq ft Youth Lounge, with tables, chairs, and computers, will open near Galesburg High and Junior High (0.25 miles away) by December/January, offering meals to teens without membership, accessible via a paved path.
- Adam Sampson highlighted this as a safe hangout to address older youth’s nutritional needs.
Financial and Operational Details
- United Way’s funding offsets meal costs, while the YMCA leverages membership and fundraising, including a new indoor playground, to support staff hires like a youth development coordinator.
- Preparations include paperwork, staff training, and concession upgrades, with a September groundbreaking.
Impact and Community Involvement
- The program tackles food insecurity discreetly, aligning with YMCA’s youth development mission, offering a sense of belonging and positive role models.
- Community support is sought through advocacy, financial donations, and volunteering, with Melissa welcoming meal assembly help post-launch.
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