On Sunday, families gathered at Eden Park in Cincinnati for the Freestore Foodbank’s beloved Rubber Duck Regatta, a community‑focused fundraiser aimed at ensuring no child in the Greater Cincinnati area goes hungry. Fifty bright, inflatable ducks were released onto the lake, each marked with a unique number for a chance to win a prize.
How the event works
Donors purchase a rubber duck for $5, and every purchase funds up to 15 meals for a child facing hunger in the region. A QR code posted near the launch site allows supporters to buy ducks directly from their smartphones. After the ducks are floated, a computer‑generated random draw selects the winning duck, adding a fun element of chance to the charitable effort.
Local impact and community involvement
Freestore Foodbank, a longtime partner of Cincinnati families, estimates that the Regatta helps bridge the nutrition gap for thousands of children each year. By turning a playful activity into a tangible source of meals, the organization engages neighbors, schools, and local businesses in a shared mission of compassion.
“We want every child in our community to know that a caring neighbor is looking out for them,” said a Freestore Foodbank spokesperson. “The Rubber Duck Regatta brings families together while directly funding meals for those who need them most.”
Volunteer and sponsor opportunities
Local volunteers helped set up the launch area, manage the QR code stations, and ensure safety on the water. Several Cincinnati businesses contributed sponsorships, providing additional funds that amplify the number of meals each duck can support. Community members are encouraged to spread the word, host duck‑selling events at churches or schools, and share the QR code on social media.
Looking ahead
While the event returned in a new format—launching ducks from the lake rather than dumping them into the Ohio River—the core purpose remains unchanged: to shine a light on food insecurity and rally the community around a practical solution. Organizers hope the Regatta will continue to grow, reaching more families and delivering more meals each year.
For more details on how to purchase a duck, volunteer, or sponsor the event, visit the Freestore Foodbank website or scan the QR code displayed at Eden Park.
Original reporting: WLWT Cincinnati — read the source article.
