This September I had the pleasure of sitting down with Maslow Project’s longtime donor, Marlan Morse. His interest began when he learned that Pastor David Rapp of Waters Edge church had been serving summertime lunches for students in need. Marlan, a dentist and father, resonated with children’s need for access to nutritious food.

 It was symbiotic when he heard Mary Ferrell, Maslow Project’s Executive Director, advocating for the nearly 1,200 children experiencing homelessness in Jackson County. Compelled to help, Marlan became the primary donor for our Snack Pack Program.

 The Snack Pack Program provides food to nearly 600 kids a year, who rely solely on school meals for sustenance. Based on national research we know youth experiencing homelessness go hungry  2x more than their stably housed peers. Snack Packs go home with students on the weekend and include granola bars, fruit cups, peanut butter and a variety of other wholesome snacks.

Marlan is now retired from dentistry and recently took a few moments to share his motivation for his continued support.  Marlan recounts that many youth find themselves having to make a choice to leave home, or find themselves asked to leave.

Faith in youth, these are good kids…they are taking a difficult route, and I respect that.

What inspires Marlan to continue supporting Maslow Project after all these years?  After some quiet moments of reflection, he replies “Mary”.  The “strength of Mary, her heartfelt dedication and soul”.  His sincerity is authentic, and I am reminded of how generous and special our community is. He’s right when he says the “success of the project speaks for itself” and Maslow Project’s “sustainability comes from the heart and soul of the organization”. 

Thank you to Marlan for taking the time to meet up and share his story.  I walked away with renewed inspiration.

Inspired by Marlan’s story?  Please consider contributing to our snack pack program by donating today! 

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