Community Unites to Combat Weekend Hunger for Horry County Children

Community Comes Together in Myrtle Beach: Packing Snacks with Love!

In the bustling community of Myrtle Beach, each Friday morning dawns not just with the rising sun but with the warm spirit of giving. A dedicated group from the Carolina Forest Sunrise Rotary Club gathers at the Conway Medical Center, where they roll up their sleeves and pack snack bags for a wonderful cause – the “Smart Snacks” program. This initiative focuses on tackling the issue of weekend hunger among elementary school students in Horry County, specifically targeting those who rely on subsidized school lunches.

The Heart Of The Matter

Leading the charge is Porter Medley, a Rotarian since 2009 and the New Generations Chair of the club. For over a decade, he has been a steadfast supporter of the Smart Snacks program, bringing his passion for nutrition and community service to the forefront. “Every Friday, we pack bags filled with nutritious snacks like granola bars, fruit cups, pretzels, and crackers,” Medley shared with enthusiasm. “These bags are essential for the families who need a little extra support over the weekend.”

Can you imagine receiving a bag of goodies just when you need them the most? Medley emphasized that this initiative serves around 900 children each year, showcasing the significant need in the community. The Conway Medical Center Foundation along with the rotary club invests a whopping $40,000 to $50,000 annually to ensure these kids don’t go hungry when the school week ends.

How It All Comes Together

The packing process is nothing short of a well-orchestrated operation. It begins bright and early, often before 7 a.m., as club members gather to set up a long table filled with snacks. “We work together side by side,” Medley explained. “Each of us grabs a couple of items per bag, and before we know it, we can pack about 290 bags with a team of 13 to 20 volunteers in just 10 minutes!” Talk about teamwork!

This noble venture is not solely limited to the rotary members; the club often collaborates with local high school and college Rotary programs, encouraging young people to engage in community service while learning the importance of helping those in need.

Making a Difference, One Bag at a Time

The Smart Snacks program benefits four elementary schools: Waccamaw Elementary, Conway Elementary, Homewood Elementary, and Midland Elementary. The sense of camaraderie and purpose among the volunteers is palpable, providing an excellent opportunity for younger generations to connect with seasoned Rotarians. “It’s a beautiful thing to see them combining forces and making a difference together,” said Medley.

Reflecting on his childhood experiences, Medley highlights how important nutrition was in his family of seven. “My parents always made sure we had breakfast, even if we didn’t want it,” he reminisced. “It made a huge difference in our lives and set the tone for how we tackled the day. I want these kids to have that same advantage.”

Join the Movement

For anyone looking to help out, Medley urges community members to consider supporting the program by donating to the Conway Medical Center Foundation. “Every bit helps,” he encourages. “It costs around $50,000 a year to keep this program rolling, and donations can make a big impact on these children’s lives.” The Smart Snacks initiative has been going strong since March 2005, proving to be a reliable source of nourishment for many.

So, the next time you’re enjoying a snack this weekend, remember the good folks at the Carolina Forest Sunrise Rotary Club who work tirelessly every Friday to ensure children in Horry County have something to munch on. Together, they’re not just packing snacks; they’re packing love!