YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – Second Harvest Food Bank of the Mahoning Valley has received a $100,000 donation in memory of a local woman.
Hubbard native Michael Heinzer presented the food bank with the donation Saturday in memory of his wife, Kathleen, who died in 2024.
“The Heinzer family has shown us what it means to care for your neighbors and then take that spirit of service even further,” said Mike Iberis, executive director of Second Harvest Food Bank of the Mahoning Valley. “Their inspiring commitment, reflected in this incredible $100,000 gift, ensures that families across our Valley will have the food they need.”
The Heinzers became involved in helping to feed those in need in the early 1970s. On his way home from work one day after finding out he didn’t receive a raise, Heinzer saw a homeless man and stopped at a store to buy him food.
“When I got home, I ran into the house and told my wife everything that happened to me,” Heinzer said. “I was so excited that I decided when I retired, I would find a way to help others in need.”
The Heinzers began volunteering at the St. Patrick’s Food Pantry in Hubbard in 2000. Kathleen would often have candy with her to share with children who would visit the food pantry with their families.
Kathleen “had a special gift when spending time with children who came to the food pantry,” Heinzer said. “She seemed to know just how to get into their hearts and make them smile,” he said.
After the couple stepped away from working at the Hubbard food pantry, they began donating to Second Harvest.
“The Heinzer family has set an example that goes beyond dollars and cents,” said Renee Fuller, associate director of Second Harvest Food Bank of the Mahoning Valley. “It’s about the impact of caring deeply. Their legacy will live on each time a family is nourished because of their kindness,” she said.
Heinzer said he hopes their story inspires others to help their communities.
“It is my wish that this may inspire others to get involved and make a difference wherever God leads them,” he said. “No matter where you are or what you are doing, when you are dealing with others, do it with love in your heart and you will find it very rewarding.”
Pictured at top: Michael Heinzer, left, presents a $100,000 donation to Mike Iberis, executive director of Second Harvest Food Bank of the Mahoning Valley.