Medina seventh grader leads food drive to help families in need

A Claggett Middle School seventh grader is continuing his mission to serve others — one canned good at a time.

Jack Powell has launched a community food collection through his ministry, God’s Children, to help families affected by recent SNAP benefit reductions. Donations of nonperishable items are being accepted at 450 Birch Hill Drive in Medina, or by Venmo at @jackp11529 or @Michelle-Powell-89.

Jack is the son of Michelle Powell, founder of the Medina-based nonprofit Let’s Make a Difference, which provides meals, mentorship and school supplies to local children. Inspired by his mother’s example, Jack began his ministry when he was in third grade.

“I started God’s Children Ministry when I was in third grade,” Jack said. “I walked around my neighborhood and gave my neighbors a Lifesaver, letting them know Jesus is a lifesaver. I then offered to pray for them.”

Jack said he combined his mom’s passion for helping children with his own love of God. Since then, he’s expanded his ministry to meet community needs — collecting canned goods, socks and school supplies for local families.

“Over the years I helped bring in lots of cans,” Jack said. “Last year I helped 18 families with food bags, and (recently) helped my mom’s Let’s Make a Difference program by giving kids new socks when the SNAP benefits were cut.”

This year, his focus is on gathering nonperishable food to support families struggling with food insecurity.

Michelle Powell said her son’s work reflects the same mission that drives Let’s Make a Difference — serving others with compassion and faith.

“He’s collecting nonperishable items to help families who’ve been affected by the SNAP shutdown,” she said.

Community members can help by donating items or contacting Michelle Powell at powellmic291@gmail.com.