On a sunny afternoon in Muscatine, you might have noticed a charming lemonade stand set up on a neighborhood sidewalk. But this wasn't just any lemonade stand. This was "Lemonade for a Cause," a heartwarming initiative started by the Loconsole family, which has grown into a community-wide effort to support the Muscatine Center for Social Action (MCSA) Domestic Violence Shelter.

Glass of homemade lemonade in a garden table
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Lemonade for a Cause: Local Kids Raise Thousands for MCSA Domestic Violence Shelter

It all began with an idea from Kasey Loconsole to teach her children about the importance of giving back. What started as a simple family project has now blossomed into a beloved annual fundraiser that unites the community for a noble cause.

This Years Flyer For The Lemonade Stand
This Years Flyer For The Lemonade Stand
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Meet The Family

Henry (12), Ted (9), and Lucy (5) Loconsole, with the help of their parents Tony and Kasey, have been hosting this fundraiser for four years. Their lemonade stand, advertised on a Muscatine sidewalk, has attracted attention and donations from friends, family, coworkers, local businesses, and generous residents.

Photo From Tony Tone Loconsole
Photo From Tony Tone Loconsole
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Each year, the Loconsole family's efforts have surpassed the last. Last year, they raised over $3,000, setting a new record. This year, they've done it again, raising over $10,000 for MCSA.

The success of the lemonade stand can be attributed to the broad support it has received. Contributions came from individuals in person and through Venmo donations, with local businesses like Bosch Pest Control, Meineke Car Care, Hy-Vee, RE/MAX Agent Carli Fix, and even the Muscatine Police Department chipping in over the years.

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What Is The Charity All About?

MCSA's Domestic Violence Shelter offers a vital service to the community, providing a safe haven for women and children fleeing abusive homes. The shelter operates with 24-hour trained staff, ensuring that each individual's needs are met with care and compassion. Residents are provided with private bedrooms and shared common areas, along with immediate access to food, clothing, and toys.

Beyond the shelter, MCSA offers an array of resources, including a food pantry, homelessness prevention services, overnight housing, apartment rentals, dental and eye clinics, and rental facilities like a kitchen, meeting room, and gym.

Purple ribbon on hearts; "Love Shouldn't Hurt"; abuse, domestic violence
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For those in need, MCSA's Domestic Violence Shelter can be contacted 24 hours a day at (563) 264-3278, or through the CRISIS line at (563) 263-8080.

 

How Can I Donate To The Cause?

Though the lemonade stand is gone, you can still donate to MCSA's Domestic Violence Shelter by visiting the website here. 

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