Auto shop pays $2,033 to clear Suttons Bay school lunch debts

The Associated Press

Suttons Bay – An auto repair shop has tuned up the lunch accounts at a northern Michigan school district.

To celebrate five years in business, the owners of Mr. Hoxie’s Garage wrote a check for $2,033.99 to cover unpaid student lunch debts in Suttons Bay, near Traverse City, the Record-Eagle reported.

“We know what a trying year this has been for so many, especially for the kids, so we wanted to find a way to help relieve some of the stress that comes with attending school on a daily basis,” Grant Hoxie said.

Kris Hoxie said the couple usually supports school arts and sports, but COVID-19 disrupted those programs.

“We all need a break right now, and this generous gesture will certainly help us to spread some joy to Suttons Bay families this year,” Superintendent Casey Petz said.

Kris Hoxie said she has talked to other business owners in the Leelanau County community about making a five-year pledge to the school lunch program.

“This would take a basic need expense away” from families, especially large ones, she said.