Hike Kidz Foundation Highlights Programs for Families in Need

At the South River District community forum held March 15 at Skyline High School, representatives from the Hike Kidz Foundation shared how the organization is working to meet the needs of children and families across Warren County.

Representing the group were Rob “Robby D” Demariano, chair of the Farm to Fam program, board member Linda Funk, and office coordinator Kodie Weatherholtz.

Kodie Weatherholtz and Linda Funk of the Hike Kidz Foundation at their display table during the South River District community forum at Skyline High School on March 15, sharing information about programs supporting local children and families.

The Hike Kidz Foundation is a local nonprofit focused on helping children who lack basic necessities, including food, clothing, and emergency support. Through partnerships with other organizations and community members, the group identifies service gaps and provides solutions.

Among its ongoing programs is Boxes of Basics, which provides seasonal clothing to children from birth through age 17 who are experiencing clothing insecurity. Another initiative, Clothe the Kids, helps ensure students have appropriate clothing for the school year.

The organization also offers emergency assistance through the Grace Fund, which helps families facing immediate housing crises, particularly during the winter months. The program is designed to provide short-term support while families transition into longer-term assistance programs.

A major new initiative, the Farm to Fam program, officially launches on March 28. The program connects local farmers with families in need by providing boxes of fresh, locally sourced food.

Rob “Robby D” Demariano of the Hike Kidz Foundation explains the new Farm to Fam program during the South River District community forum at Skyline High School on March 15, highlighting efforts to connect local farmers with families in need.

Demariano said the program is designed to both address food insecurity and support local agriculture by sourcing items directly from area farmers and producers.

The first distribution will include about 25 food boxes, with another round planned shortly after. The boxes will contain staple items such as milk, eggs, bread, and meat, along with microgreens and other seasonal foods. As the growing season progresses, the contents will expand to include more fresh produce and fruits.

The program is being developed in partnership with Debbie’s Lighthouse and other local organizations, with distribution centered at a location in the Happy Creek area.

Organizers say the effort highlights the strength of community collaboration, bringing together nonprofits, farmers, and volunteers to meet local needs.

In addition to its core programs, the foundation hosts outreach events to engage families and raise awareness. One upcoming event includes a themed community gathering featuring the group’s traveling “pirate ship,” scheduled for April 4 at Love Revival Church.

Foundation leaders said their mission is to ensure that all children in the community have access to the basic resources they need to succeed.

By combining direct assistance with community partnerships, the Hike Kidz Foundation continues working to support families while building stronger connections across Warren County.