Serving Up Hope: Kiwanis & HALO

For the residents of HALO (Homeless Assistance Leadership Organization), a warm meal is more than just sustenance – it's a symbol of community, care, and connection. And for over fifteen years, the Kiwanis Clubs in Racine have been a steadfast partner in providing that vital support.

Fred Kaste, a dedicated member of the Kiwanis Club of West Racine, recently shared the inspiring story of their long-standing involvement with HALO. It all began around 2008, when various Kiwanis clubs in Racine recognized a crucial need within their community. Initially, about twenty different community groups rotated monthly to serve dinner at HALO, primarily focusing on women and children. Fred proudly notes that the Kiwanis club stepped up to ensure the men residing at HALO were also included in this act of kindness.

While the number of monthly serving groups has decreased since the pandemic, the commitment of the Kiwanis Club of West Racine remains unwavering. Every third Wednesday of the month, a dedicated group of around 20 Kiwanis and other community/church volunteers arrive at HALO, ready to serve a potluck-style meal. What's truly remarkable is that these meals aren't funded by the club; each member generously brings a dish prepared from their own pocket. This personal touch allows them to connect with the approximately 70 residents who come in each month for a nourishing meal.

The menus are as diverse and heartfelt as the volunteers themselves. Fred chuckled as he recounted some of the themed meals: "Sometimes a theme meal of lasagna with different recipes, meatloaf this month, ham dinner last month near Easter. They have done breakfast for dinner a couple times a year with pancakes and waffles and egg stratas. Summer more brats and hotdogs. August fall harvest theme with local farmers market with corn on the cob and other local foods." He even shared a charming detail: "I have saved all menus going back ten years so if coming up short of ideas I’ll go into archives!" This dedication to providing variety and comfort speaks volumes about their commitment. In the colder months of January and February, they host an "empty bowls" theme, featuring everyone's favorite chili or soup recipes.

Volunteers typically arrive around 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM, with some just dropping off dishes while others focus on the actual serving at 5:00 PM. During the school year, they even receive enthusiastic assistance from the Park High School Key Club, fostering a spirit of service in the next generation.

When asked about the motivation behind their partnership, Fred emphasized the core mission of Kiwanis International: "The focus of Kiwanis International is helping children of the world, so that was the driving factor to get involved." He further highlighted the hands-on nature of their local club: "Our West Racine club, of any Kiwanis club he knows, they love hands-on community projects." 

For the Kiwanis members, the reward goes far beyond simply providing a meal. Fred eloquently explained, "There's something about taking things a step further than writing a check and being able to make a difference in someone's life is the main motivating factor – buying the food, preparing a dish, and serving." He shared a poignant observation about the residents they serve: "Especially last year, they were seeing families that looked like they could be a next-door neighbor, but based on a medical emergency or financial situation, it reminds you that there are circumstances in life that can affect anybody. We are all two or three emergencies away from ending up at HALO too! Life is fragile, and life can change." This empathy and understanding underscore the profound impact of their service.

Fred also shared touching moments that highlight the importance of this partnership: "Residents will thank us in the parking lot." He emphasized HALO's reliance on community support, noting that local establishments like Roma and Infusino's often donate leftover food from banquets. "Residents appreciate having a warm meal."

Even the smallest details are considered with care. Fred mentioned his monthly thought process: "Every month I send out a menu to our group, and I'd think, what do we make for dessert?" The community's generosity extends to sweet treats as well, with frequent donations of bakery from O&H and Festival Foods. The Kiwanis Club has even gone the extra mile to provide hand-scooped ice cream with various toppings, a rare and much-appreciated treat.

The enduring partnership between the Kiwanis Club of West Racine and HALO is a testament to the power of community collaboration and the profound impact of simple acts of kindness. It’s a reminder that a warm meal can offer not just nourishment, but also dignity, hope, and a vital connection to a caring community. HALO is deeply grateful for the Kiwanis Club's continued dedication to their mission.

If your organization or family is interested in cooking, or purchasing and serving a meal for the residents of HALO, please contact Darlene Langdon at dlangdon@haloinc.org.