Interview by Kelly Postiglione
We’re so excited to introduce three amazing Sound Shore moms, Meghan Charles, Christie Bonasera, and Niki Gibbs. Together, they serve on the Auxiliary Board for Meals on Main Street and are the Race Chairs for the organization’s upcoming 5K & Fun Run on October 19, 2025. Their passion for giving back and helping local families facing food insecurity is truly inspiring.
For those who may not know, can you tell us a little about Meals on Main Street and the incredible work you do for the community?
Meals on Main Street is a nonprofit dedicated to fighting food insecurity and hunger and providing access to nutritious food for anyone in need. We focus on food, one of the most fundamental human needs. We know people need more than basic food assistance, and by helping families access high-quality meals with dignity and respect, we show them that their well-being matters.
Food insecurity can affect anyone, but it’s especially common among low-income families, seniors, children, and people facing housing instability or job loss. We partner with local farms, grocery stores, restaurants, and commissaries to source both farm-fresh and shelf-stable food. At our new kitchen, we prepare high-quality meals every day, which are then distributed through our mobile pantry trucks, partner agencies, and direct home delivery services.
Anyone in need can receive this food assistance. You can find our mobile pantry truck schedule at mealsonmainst.org/services#truck-schedules.
What inspired you to get involved with Meals on Main Street?
The reality is our neighbors experience food insecurity and we were looking for ways to help solve the problem. Meals on Main Street gives us the opportunity to make a real difference and help families in our own community.
You have a big event coming up! Can you tell us what the Meals on Main Street 5K is all about?
The Meals on Main Street 5K & Fun Run takes place in downtown Port Chester and is such a fun community event. The race starts at Colony Grill and takes runners and walkers down Main Street, past our new building at #509, and through the heart of the neighborhood.
This is the fifth year of the race, and it’s open to participants of all ages. Best of all, proceeds from the event help provide 150,000 meals to those in need during the upcoming holiday season.
What can runners, walkers, and families look forward to on race day?
It’s a true community celebration with something for everyone. There’s a competitive 5K, a 1.5-mile fun run, and a kids’ 100-yard dash. We’ll have live music, awards, and great food from Colony Grill, Neri’s Bakery, and Bona Bona Ice Cream, plus lots of fun for the whole family.
How do the funds raised from the 5K help support your programs and the families you serve?
Every dollar raised helps us feed local families in need. Funds from the 5K & Fun Run go directly toward providing more than 150,000 meals throughout the holiday season.
For anyone who wants to get involved, what are some ways to participate, whether by joining the race, volunteering, or donating?
Meals on Main Street relies on both donors and volunteers to keep our programs running. This year, our goal is to provide over 1.25 million meals, and we need all the help we can get to make that happen.
You can sign up to volunteer through calendly.com/volunteer-mealsonmainst or volunteer specifically for the 5K & Fun Run at zippy-reg.com/vol/5kfunrun. Donations can be made anytime at mealsonmainst.org/donate.
Lastly, what’s the best way for people to learn more or sign up for the 5K?
To learn more or register for the Meals on Main Street 5K & Fun Run, visit areep.com/events/moms or sign up directly at zippy-reg.com/register/5kfunrun.
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