“Famous Dave’s Labor Day BBQ”
Starting in 2021, the newest program provides 1,000 BBQ meal kits for the Labor Day weekend to Detroit area families. In conjunction with Famous Dave’s, Higher Hopes! will be providing a 20lb pork butt, seasonings, spices, as well as BBQ sides like baked beans, Jiffy cornbread mix, slaw, and watermelon. The inaugural distribution of this Labor Day program will be September 2, 2021.
“1,000 Turkeys, 10,000 Smiles”
The Thanksgiving program, “1,000 Turkeys, 10,000 Smiles”, is the largest event that Higher Hopes! coordinates. Higher Hopes! distributes food kits to underserved families in metro Detroit the week before Thanksgiving, ensuring that families are able to take part in the cooking traditions associated with the holiday. Each 65 lb meal package includes everything from the turkey and sides to desserts and drinks.
Blessings in a Backpack
Higher Hopes! has partnered with national organization Blessings in a Backpack to bring weekend food to over 1,000 Detroit students enrolled in Head Start programs around the city. The shelf-stable packets of food are distributed on Fridays and are meant to provide underserved children with access to high-protein, high-fiber, low-sodium food to get them through the weekend.
Rescued Food Program
As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, supply chain disruptions have resulted in mass produced farm products unable to be distributed. As a result, millions of pounds of fresh food, such as eggs, milk, meat products, and crops, have no choice but to be destroyed, despite families going hungry during this difficult time. Seeing the opportunity to reduce food waste and help underserved families, Higher Hopes! has solicited donations and raised funds to bring unused food and hygiene products to communities in the state.