Lake City-based Hunger Intervention Program (HIP) works to bring food to local families and now seniors through its Healthy HIP Packs Program, meal programs, and by advocating for our hungry neighbors.
HIP Board and staff visited with Aerie No.1 President Dan Kerege and saw their HIP Pear Tree back in May.
Katie Numair is the creative force behind the Eagles Aerie No. 1’s fundraising efforts for Healthy HIP Packs. We wanted to share with you more about why Katie and the Eagles are passionate about partnering with HIP to end hunger, particularly right here in Lake City
What was your first impression of HIP?
I thought …..what a great idea! It is so simple yet has an immediate impact.
What’s your first memory of hunger?
I grew up with 9 brothers and sisters, plus my parents. Twelve people to feed breakfast, lunch and dinner. White bread with oleo and sugar was sometimes all we had to eat for breakfast or lunch. I thought that was the normal for everyone. I never knew that other people ate differently. It wasn’t until I was in high school that I learned our family struggled with hunger issues.
What do you wish other people knew about hunger?
That it affects all different kinds of people. That people who have jobs are affected. There isn’t just one face for hunger; it could be your neighbor.
When fellow Eagles members find out that your club is raising funds for HIP, what do they say or ask?
When I first explain the program, the first reaction is usually the same…..”we have hungry children in our neighborhood?” They are shocked.
What might someone be surprised to know about the Eagles Aerie No. 1?
That we are the founding chapter of Fraternal Order of Eagles. It was founded by theater owners in Seattle in 1898 to help people that were struggling to see doctors or put food on the table. Our original name was” The Order of Good Things”. Out motto is “People helping People” and that’s what we do.
What’s your personal philosophy on what should be done about hunger?
Well, we should all become aware and do what we can to help. For some, helping is providing food for this program and the local food banks. For some, that would be a hardship…..so I would ask to inform others. Just don’t let an opportunity to educate someone about hunger in our community pass. Knowledge is power.
What would you tell someone who is thinking about donating to HIP?
I would tell them that when they do, the impact is felt immediately. This program is about as direct as you can get. No middle man….just kids being fed. It takes so little to do so much.
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