School’s out, summer’s in! But for many local families, that means kids lose access to the reliable weekday meals provided through school programs. That’s why MKJ Homes is proud to host a Summer Food Drive in support of ALIVE!, Alexandria’s leading nonprofit addressing food insecurity and economic hardship. From June 29 through July 4, we’ll be collecting essential food items at the Dowden Terrace Pool. We hope you will consider dropping off donations as you come for a swim or a barbecue with friends.

Why ALIVE! Matters

Every month, ALIVE! helps nearly 20,000 Alexandrians secure nutritious groceries, respond to financial emergencies, and obtain basic household necessities. During summer months; when school meal programs pause, the demand for food assistance actually increases. By contributing non-bulk, non-expired goods such as canned fruits and vegetables, kid-friendly microwavable entrees, cereal and oatmeal, peanut butter and jam, pasta and sauce, rice, cooking oil, and dried beans or lentils, you’ll ensure local children and families don’t go hungry when they need support most.

How to Give

Drop-off Dates: June 29 – July 4, 2025
Location: Dowden Terrace Recreation Pool (look for our collection bins by the entrance)
What We Need: Please bring only non-bulk containers (no glass jars) and check that all items are unexpired. For a full list of accepted donations and guidelines, visit https://www.alive-inc.org/donate-food/. Prefer to give online? You can make a tax-deductible gift directly to ALIVE! at https://www.alive-inc.org/make-financial-donation-alexandria-va/. Every dollar helps ALIVE! stock shelves, distribute meals, and address urgent financial needs throughout our city.

Thank You for Supporting Your Neighbors

We’re grateful to our neighbors at Dowden Terrace Pool for hosting our collection bins, and to everyone who takes a moment this summer to donate.