Forward-Thinking Philanthropists Support PACH

“She often did not have shoes; if she did, they were ill-fitting. Food was frequently scarce,” shared Jean Jenson, niece of the late Darwin and Fern Williams, on her aunt’s humble childhood. “Giving back to help kids in similar situations to her own childhood was always important to Fern. Giving brought her joy.”

The Williams made giving back to organizations serving local needy children a priority throughout their lives. Now, with both Darwin and Fern passed, their legacy of giving continues with their donor-advised fund at the Watertown Area Community Foundation.

The couple designated Jean’s daughter, Christina Planteen of Watertown to advise grants from their fund upon their passing. 

“Both would wholeheartedly support the work of PACH,” shared Christina. “Fern knew that feeling when she was young, sometimes not knowing when her next meal may come. She would want to do whatever she could to prevent that kind of suffering for another child, especially in Watertown, a community she loved so much.”

PACH – People Against Child Hunger provides children in Codington County who may not have enough food to eat at home, easy-to-prepare weekend meals and snacks.

PACH started in 2011 with about 100 participants. In 2022, the non-profit organization served an average of 520 children every week. Meal items and snacks are sorted, packed, distributed, and discreetly placed in needy children’s backpacks at local schools every week. The entire process is led by community volunteers.

“We have historically tried to keep food costs under $5 per food sack; but as with everything lately, our costs have risen significantly,” said Becky Schaible PACH board president. “This year we are seeing not only enrollment increase in the program but also our cost per child is now over $7 per week.”

“This is exactly where Fern would have stepped in to help. Being able to give was a gift to her,” said Christina. 

Having learned of the rising costs the organization faced and with a new school year about to begin, Christina directed a $20,000 grant to PACH from the Darwin and Fern Williams Fund.

“What a phenomenal legacy Mr. and Mrs. Williams have created,” said Cammie Mengwasser, Executive Director of the Watertown Area Community Foundation. “No one could have predicted in 2014 when the Williams established their fund the food insecurities our community’s young people would be facing nearly a decade later. With demand continuing to rise, more and more support will be necessary to maintain the critical service PACH provides.” 

“Fern loved life and loved Watertown,” shared Jean. “It is wonderful to see both her and Darwin’s generosity live on in this community that was so dear to them.”

Williams’ Legacy Lives On >> The family of Darwin and Fern Williams present representatives from PACH a $20,000 grant to help purchase food for needy children in Codington County. Pictured are PACH board members Sara Zaug, Lorie Blackwell, and Kelly Jaderborg; Williams’ family members Chistina Planteen, Jean Jenson, and Julie Shellhorn; PACH board members Jenni Wirkus and Mallory Olsen.