Two months after a devastating tornado ripped through the Fox Valley, Appleton residents are rallying to support families still rebuilding. The Salon Professional Academy, located at 3355 West College Avenue, will serve as the hub for the new Trim Hunger Food Drive, beginning Monday, Oct. 2, and running through Friday each week.
Community effort to restock pantry shelves
Founder and stylist Josif Wittnik, who started the non‑profit Trim Hunger, explained that the drive aims to replenish the shelves of Vinnie’s Pantry at St. Vincent De Paul in Neenah/Menasha. “We want to make sure families have the basic staples they need as they get back on their feet,” Wittnik said.
Donors are asked to bring non‑perishable food items such as canned vegetables, soups, beans, pasta, rice, and boxed meals. The academy will accept donations during normal business hours, making it convenient for busy parents, students, and professionals to contribute on their way to work or school.
How to help
- Drop off non‑perishable food at the Salon Professional Academy, 3355 West College Avenue, Appleton.
- Donate any unopened, shelf‑stable items that can be stored safely.
- Spread the word to friends, family, and fellow community members.
Trim Hunger will collect the donations each day and deliver them to Vinnie’s Pantry, ensuring a steady flow of supplies for families still coping with the aftermath of the tornado.
Why the drive matters
The tornado that struck the Fox Valley in July left many homes damaged and displaced. While emergency shelters and rebuilding efforts have made significant progress, many households continue to face food insecurity. Local pantries like Vinnie’s play a critical role in bridging that gap, providing essential nutrition to children and adults alike.
By organizing a focused, recurring food drive, the Salon Professional Academy is leveraging its central location and community ties to amplify the impact of charitable giving. “Our students and staff see this as a chance to give back and demonstrate the values we teach in the classroom,” Wittnik added.
Community response
Early response from Appleton businesses and residents has been enthusiastic. Local grocery stores have posted flyers, and several churches have offered to promote the drive during services. The collaborative spirit reflects the strong family‑centered and faith‑based values that define the Appleton community.
Anyone interested in supporting the effort can also contact the academy directly at (920) 555‑0123 for more information about specific needs or to arrange larger donations.
Looking ahead
Trim Hunger plans to continue the food drive throughout the fall, with the goal of establishing a sustainable pipeline of donations for Vinnie’s Pantry. The organizers hope that the initiative will inspire other schools and businesses in the region to launch similar programs, fostering a broader network of community support.
As Appleton rebuilds, the Trim Hunger Food Drive stands as a tangible reminder that neighbors helping neighbors remains a cornerstone of recovery and resilience.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
