In one evening, 36,480 hunger-free weekends became possible for children across Louisville.

That impact came to life during Pack the Sack, one of the Louisville chapter’s signature events, where 277 guests gathered with a shared purpose of making sure no child faces the weekend without food.

Enthusiasm filled the room as five of Louisville’s most celebrated chefs, Dallas McGarity, Jackie Joseph, James Moran, Brandi Alexander, and Noam Bilitzer, served a curated culinary experience that blended creativity with compassion. Each dish told a story of generosity, as local talent stepped forward not just to cook, but to give back.

That spirit carried into a lively auction, where guests bid on once-in-a-lifetime experiences, including a private barrel pick at Green River Distilling Co. with a guided tasting led by bourbon expert Chris Blandford, a Kentucky Derby weekend package, and a five-night getaway to Portugal.

The evening was made possible by dedicated sponsors and partners who continue to advance the mission. Presenting Sponsor Kroger led the way, joined by Weekend Warrior Sponsors Triplett & Carothers Law Offices, Republic Bank, Masterson’s Catering, Atrium Brewing, and Republic National Distributing Company. Additional support from Backpack Buddy Sponsors, Norton Commons Realty, Susan Graff, and the Kentucky Restaurant Association; Event Series Sponsor Sysco; and partner organizations Unbridled Eve Derby Gala Charitable Foundation and Heaven Hill Brands highlighted what can happen when a community comes together with purpose.

As the night came to a close, a clear promise remained. When Friday comes, thousands of children head home with food, care, and the confidence that their community stands behind them. Louisville continues to turn one night of generosity into thousands of hunger-free weekends for kids.