September ushers in the fall season with a shift towards cooling temperatures and a new agenda of family fun and holidays. As students return to the classroom, the women of the Iota chapter of Tri Kappa also focus on school by working closely with the guidance counselors in the Valpo schools to support the Needy Family Fund. From school supplies, food and clothing, to household necessities, Tri Kappa members strive to help kids stay in school, performing at their best despite hardship circumstances.

“Our support to the needy families in the Valpo Schools is something Tri Kappa has been doing for years. We collect school supplies to get the kids started on the right foot, and we begin after Thanksgiving working together to provide Christmas gifts to more than 20 families. However, the real magic of what we can do as a group is to bail out a family in crisis. We have been known to donate furniture, bedding, and clothing when emergencies arise, such as household fire or domestic violence. When the guidance counselors need things immediately, our group of members is extremely kind and quick to help,” stated Lisa Hauser, President of Tri Kappa, Iota chapter.

The annual Nut Sale, featuring nuts and candy by Terri Lynn begins today. One hundred percent of the money raised by Tri Kappa is donated back into the Valparaiso community. Proceeds from the sale will support the efforts with the Needy Family Fund, but also makes it possible for the Annual Preschool Vision Screening program, the Reading Program at the Hilltop Neighborhood House, and to the grants and allocations awarded to many area non profit groups that also serve the needs of children and families such as The Boys and Girls Clubs of Porter County, Housing Opportunities, and many others.

The fall grant application window is open now. Forms are available online and due by October 15.

This year, Valpo Schools will be stocking pantries for students who may need basic household supplies.