For students in grades 3-6 

Overview 

The Kids Connect Field Trip is a unique opportunity for elementary school-aged children who are at least 8 years old in grades 3-6 to visit and engage with Harvesters. This field trip includes a comprehensive and engaging experience designed to educate children about hunger and food insecurity while allowing them to contribute meaningfully to Harvesters’ mission. 

Field Trip Structure 

1. Hunger Education Session (30 minutes) 

Children will participate in an interactive session that educates them about hunger, food insecurity, and the importance of nutritious food. This session will help children understand the challenges faced by many families and how organizations like Harvesters work to address these issues. 

2. Postcards for Seniors (30 minutes) 

Children can bring joy to seniors by coloring and writing heartfelt postcards, which will be included in monthly food donation boxes. This activity fosters creativity and connection, brightening the lives of both the young volunteers and the senior recipients.  

3. Tour of the Facility (30 minutes) 

Children will take a guided tour of the Harvesters facility, providing them with a behind-the-scenes look at how food is collected, sorted, and distributed to those in need. This tour will highlight the importance of community support and volunteer efforts at Harvesters. 

Benefits of the Harvesters Kids Connect Field Trip 

Educational Engagement: The field trip provides a hands-on learning experience about hunger and food insecurity, fostering empathy and awareness among youth participants. 

Community Involvement: By participating in the food sorting simulation, children can experience a volunteer’s contribution to Harvesters’ mission, understanding the impact of their efforts on the community. 

Inspiration for Future Volunteerism: Early exposure to community service and hunger relief efforts can inspire children to continue engaging in volunteer activities as they grow older. 

Additional Information 

Booking Details: 

• Email getinvolved@harvesters.org to request your preferred field trip date. 

• Reservations should be made at least four weeks in advance. We cannot guarantee availability. 

• Opportunities are available on four days each month either on a Wednesday or Friday from 10:30 am-12:00 pm, with only one session per day. 

• The maximum group size is 75. The group will be split into three smaller groups who will cycle through each activity. If your group is late, we cannot guarantee that every group will get to experience each activity. 

• Reservations are on a first-come, first-served basis. With the limited number of field trips offered each month, early booking is recommended. 

Requirements: 

• All participants including teachers and chaperones must wear closed toe, closed heal shoes (NO sandals or flip flops; Crocs, while not preferred, must be worn in sports mode) or the participant will not be permitted to take the tour. 

• One adult chaperone is REQUIRED for every 5 youth.  

This structured itinerary ensures that all participants receive a comprehensive experience, including education, hands-on activities, and a facility tour. The field trip will help children engage meaningfully with Harvesters’ mission and help them understand the importance of community service and hunger relief efforts. 

For more information, please contact the Community Engagement Department:
Kansas City: getinvolved@harvesters.org or (816) 929-3090 
Lawrence: fighthunger@harvesters.org or (785) 856-6089