The Lake of the Ozarks Idiots Club is stepping up again this school year, providing meals for children in need through their Buddy Pack Program.
Their first delivery of the 2024-2025 school year provided meals for 195 students across three schools: Climax Springs, Macks Creek, and School of the Osage Middle School. Each student receives six meals a week for four weeks through these Buddy Packs, offering much-needed nourishment when school is out.
This year, the Idiots Club is also assisting Hurricane Deck with transportation for Buddy Packs for 55 students, ensuring even more kids have access to food. The club welcomed new Buddy Pack Coordinator, Susan Ziegler, and expressed gratitude for past coordinator Linda Pieper’s contributions.
The effort is a true community collaboration, with Hy-Vee preparing their the club's orders every four weeks. Volunteers, including Mark and Diane Smith, Ron Fife, Eric and Sally Sadlo, and others help with the logistics, ensuring deliveries run smoothly to each school.
In addition to Buddy Packs, the club also provides food for 20 students at Horizons Laker Educational Center in Camdenton. This month, shoppers Ron and Shelly Fife delivered the items, with Director Allen Schwantes helping with the handoff. Thanks to a partnership with SavALot, the club is able to shop tax-free, ensuring they can provide more food to students in need.
The Idiots Club is just one example of how the Lake community comes together to support its youth. Those interested in donating or learning more can contact the Idiots Club via email at lotoidiotsclub@gmail.com or follow the Jesters of Goodwill on Facebook.
