Sparta, Wisconsin · Since 2019

One clear promise.So all kids can eat.

The John Harrison Angel Fund continues one Sparta man’s simple act of kindness: asking his neighbors to help children eat at school.

So all kids can eat — John Harrison Angel FundThe message that keeps the work moving.
Spring 2019John began collecting in Sparta
$10,305Raised by the community by August 2019
2026The family’s work is still active

The beginning

John saw a need and stood where people could see him.

John Harrison collecting donations near the Walgreens corner in Sparta while holding his Angel Fund sign
John at the corner where the collection began.

In spring 2019, John Harrison stood near the Walgreens corner in Sparta and collected what neighbors were willing to give toward children’s school meals.

He raised about $3,000 before his unexpected death that June. John’s family and community kept going. By August, they had carried his $10,000 goal past the finish line—and they did not stop there.

Follow the full timeline

A living legacy

The work did not end at the goal.

  1. Spring 2019

    John takes to the corner

  2. June 2019

    The community carries it forward

  3. August 27, 2019

    John’s goal is surpassed

  4. Today

    The work continues

A place for everyone

Helping can look like something you already do.

Give personally, bring people together, or let an ordinary business day carry a little more purpose.

01

Give personally

Use the current instructions supplied by the fund or the Sparta Area School District. Confirm the destination before sending money.

02

Create a match

Invite a business, family, or employer to match community gifts up to a clear, published amount.

03

Turn a workday into a giving day

Employee jeans days and workplace collections have already provided a simple way for local teams to help together.

04

Share part of a sale

A restaurant, shop, or service business can dedicate a fixed amount or percentage from a specific day or item.

See every way to help

From the community

The latest chapter.

Collection day

Back at John’s corner

The family returned to the Walgreens corner in Sparta and reported collecting $259 for the fund that day.

See updates and milestones

A community effort

John’s family kept the promise. Sparta keeps showing up.

Sparta Area School DistrictSparta Dental CenterSparta American Legion Auxiliary1st Community Credit UnionSparta Lady ButterfestCulver’sKEPS
See the community story