While we live in the wealthiest nation in the world, childhood hunger stealthily persists in our own neighborhoods. The Children’s Hunger Project (TCHP), a Brevard County initiative begun in 2010, started by feeding 27 students at Riviera Elementary in Palm Bay. By the end of the 2024–25 school year, TCHP was providing weekend meals to 4,700 students in 60 local elementary schools in Brevard County.

Here at Ascension Catholic, we give heartfelt thanks for the generosity of our parish family—your gifts of time, talent, and treasure help bridge the food insecurity gap for children in need. With the blessing of Fr. Eamon Tobin and continued support of Fr. John Bosco, our parish “adopted” Sherwood, Croton, and Creel Elementary Schools, providing meals every weekend to 183 students this past school year.

Thanks to more than 290 parishioners, who together contributed nearly 400 volunteer hours to pack 6,700 meals, our mission continues to thrive. We also deeply appreciate those who offered financial support—every $190 one-time gift (or $16/month) feeds one child for an entire school year.

To contribute financially: visit TCHP’s donation page. Please note “Ascension Catholic Community” under “Giving Campaign or Event” to ensure your contribution supports our parish schools.

Checks may be mailed to:  The Children’s Hunger Project, 26 Forrest Ave, Cocoa, FL 32922
Memo line: “For Ascension Catholic Community.”

Interested in helping pack meals? Sign up via SignUpGenius. Our regular packing day is Wednesday in the Ministry Center, but we gladly arrange alternate times for parish groups and families. The Knights of Columbus, Prayer Shawl Ministry, Women of Faith, and Scouts are among those who’ve joined us.

Questions? Email us at childrenshungerproject@ascensioncatholic.net.

Together, we can continue to feed children in need—one weekend, one meal, one heart at a time.

—Tim and Eileen Hillmann