KEEP REFRIGERATED

This fall, the school’s extra curricular fundraising brochures made the rounds among the FamilyPoint volunteers and staff. The glossy pamphlets boasted an enticing selection of treats: chocolate bars, candy, and even savory snacks like meat sticks. As the middle school students enthusiastically pitched their fundraising cause, the younger elementary participants pointed out which items would be great to share after school (with them of course).

After several weeks had passed—enough time for us to forget exactly what we’d ordered—excitement buzzed as boxes began arriving from the school. The students eagerly delivered the treats.

“Here’s your cheeseball, Mrs. Judi,” one student said, handing over a round, foil-wrapped treasure. The package was carefully labeled with large letters: KEEP REFRIGERATED.

As Judi took the cheeseball her face quickly morphed from excitement to concern. “Why is it hot?” she asked, looking at the warm, squishy package in her hands.

The student paused, looking at the cheeseball, then back at Judi. “Umm, …” They both stared at the mysterious, oddly warm snack for a beat before Judi tossed it into the bin as another student offered, “I’ll eat it!.”