Irene Michalos, along with her husband John, and son Alexander, co-founded Agape Meals for Kids in the fall of 2021, motivated by a need to combat the growing issue of food insecurity among school children on Long Island. Their response was driven by the harrowing statistic that around 70,000 children in the region might face up to 72 hours without a meal from the time they eat lunch in school on Fridays until they return to school on Monday mornings for breakfast.

Inspired by the immeasurable impact of compassion and selflessness, their mission is deeply rooted in personal experience. Irene’s aunt, Anna Kontogeorge, a beacon of inspiration since her childhood, exemplified the true meaning of kindness. Despite not having great wealth, she lived a remarkably modest life dedicating herself to supporting families in need, including her own, during a challenging time when Irene’s father faced disability. Her resilience, love, and unwavering commitment to the well-being of others left an indelible mark on Irene’s heart. In honor of her legacy and the countless unsung heroes like her, Agape Meals for Kids strives to carry forward the spirit of generosity, ensuring that no child goes to bed hungry and every family receives the support they need to thrive. It’s a tribute to the everyday heroes, who like her Aunt, prove that a compassionate heart can make a world of difference, no matter the circumstances.

Irene and her family believe that the well-being of our children is a shared responsibility, a reflection of our collective humanity. That’s why they started a nonprofit with a simple yet profound mission – to ensure that every child, regardless of their family’s financial circumstances, goes to bed with a satisfied tummy and the promise of a brighter tomorrow.