Turnover Hunger Program Expands to Include JCD, South Ripley Basketball Teams

The program raises funds for the Weekend Backsack Program.

(Ripley County, Ind.) - The Ripley County Community Foundation is proud to announce the expansion of its impactful Turnover Hunger initiative, a program that has already made a significant difference by teaming up with Ripley County high school football and baseball teams to fight hunger.

A Special Rivalry for a Special Cause

In a heartwarming display of community spirit, archrivals Jac-Cen-Del High School and South Ripley High School boys' varsity basketball teams are joining forces to combat childhood hunger in Ripley County. Their upcoming matchup, which also happens to be the last game of the season, will be dedicated to raising funds for the Turnover Hunger initiative spearheaded by the Ripley County Community Foundation.

The Jac-Cen-Del and South Ripley rivalry is traditionally the biggest game of each team's season. This year, they're leveraging this excitement for a cause even greater than athletic competition. It's a unique opportunity to express their support and appreciation for the significant impact the Batesville and Milan football squads have had on their schools, despite Jac-Cen-Del and South Ripley not having their own football teams. Athletes from these rival schools regularly support each other, and this initiative exemplifies that camaraderie. Through Turnover Hunger, Jac-Cen-Del and South Ripley athletes will show their gratitude and support for turning over childhood hunger in Ripley County.

Turnover Hunger: Expanding Its Reach

Turnover Hunger is a collaborative initiative between high school athletes and the Ripley County Community Foundation to raise funds for the Weekend Backsack Program, which ensures elementary students in need have access to meals on weekends when school-provided meals are unavailable. Originally launched with football teams, Turnover Hunger grew to include baseball through the Strikeout Hunger program and now welcomes basketball teams to join the effort. While these teams may battle it out on the court, they're united in their mission to raise funds for this crucial cause.

The Fight Against Childhood Hunger

"Food insecurity affects nearly 14.9 percent of children in Ripley County, according to Feeding America," said Amy Streator, Executive Director of the Ripley County Community Foundation. "We know that the average meal costs just $3.42, so even small contributions can make a big

difference in the lives of local children. We are inspired by the leadership and compassion of our student athletes as they take on this challenge to support their peers and build a stronger, healthier community."

How You Can Help

You can contribute to Turnover Hunger by donating through the Ripley County Community Foundation’s website at https://rccfonline.org/impact/initiatives/turnover-hunger. Every contribution helps ensure that local children have the nutrition they need to succeed.

The Ripley County Community Foundation is committed to Connecting People Who Care with Causes that Matter and is located at 13 E. George Street, Suite B, Batesville. To learn how you can invest in the future of Ripley County, or to leave your legacy, contact the Ripley County Community Foundation at (812) 933-1098 or visit www.rccfonline.org.