Lexington, September 30, 2025
News Summary
Adam Dahl, owner of Dahlhaus Fudge in Lexington, has raised $17,000 for Fayette County schools’ lunch debt through the Feed the Kids 3K charity event. This initiative aims to address the estimated $50,000 to $60,000 in outstanding lunch debt that affects local students. The event attracted about 340 participants and included a friendly competition among schools to increase registration and fundraising. Dahl encourages continued community support to improve school nutrition and educational success for underprivileged students.
Lexington Business Owner Raises $17,000 for Fayette County Schools’ Lunch Debt
Adam Dahl, the owner of Dahlhaus Fudge in Lexington, Kentucky, has successfully raised $17,000 to help alleviate the school lunch debt for Fayette County Public Schools through his inaugural Feed the Kids 3K event. This initiative marks a significant step towards tackling an estimated $50,000 to $60,000 in outstanding lunch debt faced by local schools, which is a growing concern for many students and their families.
The fundraising event, which attracted around 340 runners, took place as a part of Dahl’s commitment to support students in need. This year, Dahl has already surpassed last year’s contributions, which totaled $13,000. The Feed the Kids 3K featured a friendly competition among local schools to see who could register the most participants, with the winning school receiving prizes such as free school supplies.
Dahl’s endeavors to pay off school lunch debt began gaining momentum after he started earning money from TikTok views—an unexpected venture that blossomed into a meaningful fundraising effort. In light of the upcoming fudge season, he plans to work extensively to meet demand while continuing to push his mission forward.
Community Support and School Nutrition
Participation in the Feed the Kids 3K was not limited to in-person runners; virtual registrants also contributed to the overall funds raised. Dahl established a nonprofit called the Dahlhus Fund in collaboration with the Bluegrass Community Foundation to effectively manage donations and strengthen impact. This organization aims to ensure students receive proper nutrition so they are equipped to excel in their education.
As concerns persist regarding budget cuts that could threaten free lunch programs, Dahl encourages community members to continue donating in anticipation of the next school year. He believes tackling school lunch debt is not only a feasible goal but also critical for promoting educational success among underprivileged students.
A teacher from Fayette County Public Schools highlighted the importance of funding for school lunches, noting its significant positive effect on students’ ability to focus and learn. Building on the success of this year’s event, Dahl intends to expand the Feed the Kids 3K next year with hopes of raising even more funds to support local families.
Looking Ahead
As Dahl prepares for the upcoming fudge season, with over 50 flavors available, he remains determined to expand both his business and philanthropic efforts. His passion for providing aid through his business model indicates a growing trend among local entrepreneurs who are actively seeking ways to make a positive impact on their communities. By consolidating the funds raised and exploring new avenues for support, Dahl is setting the stage for a hopeful future for Fayette County’s students and families.
FAQ
What is the Feed the Kids 3K event?
The Feed the Kids 3K is a fundraising event organized by Adam Dahl to raise money to pay off school lunch debt in Fayette County Public Schools.
How much money was raised during the event?
The event raised $17,000 towards paying off the school lunch debt.
What is the goal of the fundraising campaign?
The goal is to eliminate an estimated $50,000 to $60,000 in outstanding lunch debt in Fayette County.
Who organized the event?
The event was organized by Adam Dahl, the owner of Dahlhaus Fudge.
How many runners participated in the Feed the Kids 3K?
Approximately 340 runners participated in the event.
Chart of Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Feed the Kids 3K |
| Organizer | Adam Dahl, owner of Dahlhaus Fudge |
| Total Amount Raised | $17,000 |
| Estimated Lunch Debt | $50,000 to $60,000 |
| Number of Participants | 340 runners |
| Nonprofit | Dahlhus Fund |
| Prizes for Schools | Free school supplies |
| Future Plans | Expand event for greater fundraising |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Kentuckians For Good Launches Civic Engagement Initiative
Fayette County Schools Open with New Policies and Challenges
Increased Security Measures at Jessie Clark Middle School
Appalachian Communities Unite to Tackle Food Insecurity
Fayette County Schools Resume In-Person Classes
Dahlhus Fudge Tackles School Lunch Debt in Lexington
Exciting Times for Minnesota Schools: Universal Free Meals Approved
Minnesota Implements Universal Free School Meals to Support Student Success
Additional Resources
- LEX18: Lexington Fudge Maker Continues Mission of Paying Off School Lunch Debt
- Wikipedia: School Lunch
- Spectrum News 1: Dahlhaus Fudge Fund for Student Lunch Debt
- Google Search: School Lunch Debt Kentucky
- WKYT: KY Business Hosts 3K to Pay Student Lunch Debt
- Encyclopedia Britannica: School Lunch
- LEX18: Fudge Shop Owner Raises $13K for School Lunch Debt
- Google Scholar: School Lunch Debt
- WDRB: Kentucky Fudge Shop Owner Raising Money for School Lunch Debt
- Google News: Lunch Debt Kentucky
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
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