The first year of the #MiddletownRI Meals Community Challenge is applauded for raising more than 3,000 items of food and supplies for those in need, with organizers talking about holding the event annually.
MIDDLETOWN MEALS COMMUNITY CHALLENGE SUCCESS
MIDDLETOWN, RI (DECEMBER 16, 2025) – The Middletown Meals Community Challenge was a rousing success.
According to organizers, the Town Council led food and supplies drive met its mark each week of gathering more than 250 high need items for the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center in Newport.
In turn, the council matched each of the donations with 250 of its own, meaning there was more to help for everyone around the difficult holiday season.
All the hard work and achievements were recognized during Monday’s council meeting in Town Hall to loud applause and thanks from the crowd.
“When you look at the numbers, what Middletown and the MLK Center were able to do was astounding,” council President Paul M. Rodrigues said. “More than 3,000 items? I don’t think any of us can say ‘Thank you!’ enough and it speaks to the real need in our community and we’re lucky to have the MLK Center and all our community service providers here to help.”
“Middletown has been a great community partner and is always ready to step up,” MLK Community Center Executive Director Heather Hole Strout said. “I don’t think people realize how much the town gives back in so many ways. Everyone I talked to said the challenge generated some buzz and helped raise awareness of what the holidays mean for so many families and children.”
Before launching the Meals Challenge, town officials reached out to MLK Center leaders, asking what the items were in high demand.
Almost immediately, a list came back from the MLK Center looking for cereals, canned red kidney beans, soaps, tomato products and hearty soups, chilis and stews.
Under the guidance of Middletown Director of Community Engagement and Partnerships Lori Turner, drop-off locations were established in each municipal building and flyers posted to spread the word.
Unsure of the response, it was clear from the beginning the Meals Challenge resonated with many in Middletown who had the ability and willingness to give back.
Every Friday, a team from Middletown dropped off the donations at the MLK Center and coordinated how best to move forward.
Local leaders and the MLK Center are hoping to make this an annual community challenge every fall.
But just because the Meals Challenge is over for 2025 doesn’t mean the need is gone, far from it.
Those looking to give can do so directly with the MLK Center at https://mlkccenter.org/support-us/ or dropping by the facility located at 20 Dr. Marcus Wheatland Blvd., Newport.
Those seeking services from Middletown and its community partners are asked to visit https://mdl.town/Services or contact Turner directly at lturner@middletownri.gov or 401-842-6599.
“I know this made a meaningful difference in the lives of many people and families across Middletown,” Turner said. “Anytime we can positively impact our residents and the community and further build on what makes Middletown special, it’s a win-win for everyone. There’s no doubt this is a special place.”
Document Link: https://mdl.town/NYCU-Success
About Middletown
The Town of Middletown is a vibrant municipality located on Aquidneck Island, known for its scenic beauty, historic landmarks, diverse economy and strong sense of community. For more information about all we have to offer, visit MiddletownRI.gov online.
Media Contact
Matt Sheley
Public Affairs Officer
401-842-6543
msheley@middletownri.gov