My name is Katie Jo and I am fundraising to support the work I do bringing nourishment to our community.

Fort Wayne is where I have called home for the last ten years, and it has been a delight to put down roots in this town. Over the last decade I have been committed to the hospitality industry and am honored to have connections to some of the best local spots to eat and drink in our city.

Since being introduced to free meal shares by Ty Simmons of Human Agricultural Cooperative in 2020 I have worked to bring more folks into this practice of community connection and nourishment. Asking them to get curious about mutual aid and what that term means. We talk a lot about what it means to be a good neighbor and how everyone can benefit from a free meal, no matter their financial status.

In 2025 we were able to hand out almost 3,000 free meals and share thousands of dollars in resources with our neighbors. We hosted 11 events at nine different restaurants throughout our city. All without any barriers. These events are open for anyone to come to, and all we ask is that folks that show up take what serves them.

It is my goal to use my gifts of connecting and facilitating to continue to host events where folks can gather to nourish their bodies, minds and souls while also connecting with their neighbors in 2026. This fundraiser will give me the peace of mind knowing I will be able to pay my bills for the first part of the year while I commit myself to planning a year’s worth of Nourishing our Neighbors events.

No gift is too small, and I am confident my community will rise to the challenge I am setting forth in the goal of raising $5,000. If you are unable to give monetarily, please know a share is also just as helpful.

On February 1st at Rune Restaurant we will gather to connect and raise dollars towards this GoFundMe. There will be food and drinks, resource sharing, and even a cake walk! If you would like more info on how you can support us on Sunday, Feb 1st, please reach out to sign up to help.