Mount Kisco Child Care Center has announced the culinary partners for its 20th Annual 'Feed Me Fresh: An Edible Evening' fundraiser scheduled for September 21, 2024, at Ivanna Farms. The event supports the nonprofit's mission to provide equitable access to high-quality child care and early education for working families in Westchester. Executive Director Dawn Meyerski stated that the community's participation helps ensure every child has access to childcare and nutritious meals.
The fundraiser features an impressive lineup of local establishments including Crabtree's Kittle House, Captain Lawrence Brewing Company, and Ladle of Love, among others. Chefs Tommy Calandrucci and Maarten Steenman will collaborate on a special three-course plated meal during the program. This culinary celebration directly supports MKCCC's Scholarship Fund, which assists families who would otherwise find quality child care unaffordable.
The event honors two significant contributors: Peter Schwarz, Treasurer of the MKCCC Board of Directors, and Ruth Goodman, the center's social worker. Their recognition highlights the importance of community involvement in achieving the organization's goals. The fundraiser draws inspiration from MKCCC's innovative Feed Me Fresh curriculum that educates children about health and nutrition through hands-on gardening and cooking experiences.
As the 20th iteration of this event, it represents a milestone reflecting two decades of commitment to innovative early childhood education and community support. The focus on fresh, locally sourced food aligns with the center's educational approach that combines farming activities with cooking classes using seasonal offerings from playground gardens. This creates developmentally appropriate activities fostering understanding of nutrition from an early age.
The impact extends beyond immediate fundraising by reinforcing connections between early education, community health, and nutritional awareness. The continued success demonstrates the enduring importance of MKCCC's mission and the strong community bonds in Mount Kisco. The event showcases how culinary partnerships can support broader educational and social objectives while raising awareness about the critical importance of quality child care and nutritional education in early childhood development.
