Sep. 26—BRIDGEWATER, S.D. — Sometimes life and bills pile up. And a couple of Bridgewater residents are helping create a way for the community to quietly step in — through random acts of kindness — to support families facing tough times.
At 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27, the town will host the inaugural Angel Fund 5K, a run/walk event designed to raise money to cover overdue lunch accounts for students in the Bridgewater-Emery School District — no questions asked, no names revealed.
The idea started with Robyn Koch, a local mom, who felt a strong spiritual “nudging” this year to help struggling families in the district. After learning the school had no formal fund to cover negative lunch balances, she found her focus.
“There are families who are trying their best, but life throws curveballs — whether it’s medical bills, job changes, or just the rising cost of groceries,” said event organizer Robyn Koch. “They might not qualify for free lunch, but that doesn’t mean they’re not struggling.”
The angel fund will be managed through Security State Bank in Emery and distributed discreetly. When a student’s lunch account goes into the negative, school staff will notify the organizers, who will cover the balance — no names, no paperwork, just help when it’s needed.
“It’s meant to be discreet and dignified,” said Koch. “No kid should go hungry. No parent should feel ashamed.”
She found immediate support in her neighbor, Madison Hayenga, a physical therapist, volleyball coach, and new mom, who offered the idea of turning the fundraiser into a community 5K.
Hayenga has long been passionate about addressing food insecurity. In high school, she launched a backpack food program in her rural Minnesota county labeled one of the worst food deserts in the state.
“So when Robyn told me her idea, I didn’t even hesitate. I just said, ‘I’m in,'” Hayenga said.
The Angel Fund 5K will take place at the Bridgewater track and offers flexible, walker-friendly distances — from one mile up to the full 5K. Entry fees range from $20 to $40 depending on distance, and each participant will receive a custom laser-etched medal made by a friend in Spencer.
Sponsors and local businesses were quick to get involved. Craig’s Shave Ice and mini donuts vendor — who also happens to be an educator — waived their minimum fee in support of the cause. Great Shots donated a VIP door prize, and within an hour of the first Facebook post, the event had secured its first sponsor.
The school district is grateful for the effort.
“Negative lunch balances are a very real issue,” said Bridgewater-Emery Superintendent Jason Bailey. “We’re always appreciative when members of the community step up to support our students and families.”
While the primary goal is raising funds for lunch accounts, Koch and Hayenga also see the event as an opportunity to build confidence and foster fitness in their small town.
“I hope this encourages someone out there who’s been too scared to sign up for a race,” said Koch. “That used to be me.”
Years ago, Koch downloaded the Couch to 5K (C25K) app and started running alone. She eventually completed several races — including a full marathon in Fargo. It wasn’t fast or easy, but it changed her life.
“My first half marathon didn’t even give out medals — I was so disappointed I made one myself out of aluminum foil,” she said. “That’s why everyone gets one at this event.”
Now, Koch wants others to know it’s not about speed or being an athlete. It’s about taking that first step.
“I’m proof that if I can do it, anyone can,” she said. “I want this to be the moment that sparks something in someone else.”
A recent survey of registrants suggests that’s already happening: nearly everyone signed up said this will be their first-ever 5K, including one family of five.
Koch’s daughter Summer, a junior at Bridgewater-Emery, will help run check-in and manage door prizes. Koch and Hayenga hope she’ll take over next year and expand the event into her senior project.
Those interested can sign up online through the
Lap for Lunches registration
link. Same-day sign-up will also be available at the event.