Recently, Stewart’s Norwich Store Manager Suanne Morgan presented the Stewart’s Holiday Match Grant of $1,750 to Chenango County Cornell Cooperation Extension Association Team Leader Whitney Kmetz, and 4-H Youth Development Educators Nicole Starkweather and Micaela Meseck. (Submitted Photo) 


NORWICH — Chenango County 4‑ H is proud to announce they have been selected as a recipient of the Stewart’s Holiday Match grant.

“We are deeply thankful for this generous support, which will help us continue to create meaningful, hands‑ on learning experiences for local youth where we are seeing a large impact,” said Whitney Kmetz, Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) Association Team Leader.

Kmetz said this year, the funding will be used to bring dairy education in to Chenango County school districts.

She said through interactive lessons, students will research the importance of a healthy dairy diet, with education focused on the recommended daily dairy intake and why it plays a vital role in agriculture.

The program will also highlight where dairy products come from and the hard working local farmers who help feed the local communities. Plus, youth will learn to make homemade ice cream.

“This shows the child how easy it can be to make homemade ice cream at home, plus Summer is right around the corner,” Kmetz said.

She said they are grateful to Stewart’s Shops and to all who contributed to the Holiday Match program and for investing in youth development and agricultural education to area youth.

Kmetz noted their support helps inspire curiosity, build knowledge, and strengthen connection between the youth and the food systems, while also helping them understand the deep agricultural roots that shape the communities.

4-H is a community for all youth and believes in the power of young people.

Programs through the year include, sewing, archery, baking, cooking, kayaking, hiking, livestock auctions, animal care clinics, and more.

For more information on Chenango County 4-H programs, visit their Facebook page at Chenango County 4-H Youth Development or their website at ccechenango.org.