Mount Kisco Child Care Center has revealed the culinary partners for its upcoming 20th Annual 'Feed Me Fresh: An Edible Evening' fundraiser scheduled for September 21, 2024, at Ivanna Farms. The event supports the center's mission to provide equitable access to high-quality child care and early education for working families in Westchester County. The fundraiser draws inspiration from MKCCC's innovative Feed Me Fresh curriculum, which educates children about health and nutrition through hands-on gardening and cooking experiences.
Executive Director Dawn Meyerski emphasized the community significance, stating that the exceptional lineup of local restaurants helps move closer to ensuring every child has access to quality childcare and nutritious meals. The culinary partners include A & S Marketplace, Ben & Jerry's, Captain Lawrence Brewing Company, Crabtree's Kittle House, Exit 4 Food Hall, Ladle of Love, Little Drunken Chef, Lexington Square Café, Mentor's Mediterranean Steakhouse, Mimi's Coffee House, Monarca, and Mt. Kisco Seafood. Chefs Tommy Calandrucci of Stone Fire and Maarten Steenman of La Tulipe Desserts will collaborate on a special three-course plated meal during the program.
The event serves as a crucial fundraiser for MKCCC's Scholarship Fund, which assists families who would otherwise find high-quality child care unaffordable. This aligns with the center's commitment to equitable access to early education and care for all community members. The fundraiser will honor Peter Schwarz, Treasurer of the MKCCC Board of Directors, and Ruth Goodman, MKCCC's social worker, recognizing their significant contributions to the center's mission.
Beyond fundraising, the event represents community collaboration supporting early childhood education and nutrition awareness. The focus on fresh, locally sourced food directly connects to MKCCC's educational approach that combines hands-on farming activities with cooking classes using seasonal offerings from playground gardens. This creates developmentally appropriate activities fostering nutritional understanding from early childhood.
As the 20th annual iteration, this milestone reflects two decades of commitment to innovative early childhood education and community support. The continued success demonstrates the enduring importance of MKCCC's mission and strong community bonds. The impact extends beyond immediate fundraising goals by reinforcing connections between early education, community health, and nutritional awareness through local culinary partnerships.
