It’s September, and schools are back in session across the country. September is also Hunger Action Month. So, it’s only fitting that I bring to your attention some startling facts about childhood hunger in the U.S. and how Elara’s One Case One Meal giving partner, Feeding America, is addressing this harsh reality.
13 million children face hunger in the U.S.
This means 1 in 5 children doesn’t have enough to eat.
As the Whitney Houston song lyric goes, “I believe the children are our future.” Yet, without proper nutrition, the future may not be so bright for far too many kids. And that’s certainly not good for the future of America.
Impact of Food Insecurity on Kids
The effects of childhood hunger can be devastating, leading to poor academic performance, increased health problems, and developmental challenges.
Children who face food insecurity often struggle to learn, are at higher risk for conditions like anemia and asthma, and their physical and cognitive development can be hindered.
In short, when children have enough to eat, they can focus on what really matters—like doing well in school, playing sports, and just being kids. Isn’t that what childhood is supposed to be about?
Together with Elara, You’re Helping to Make a Difference for Children Facing Hunger
Through Elara’s One Case One Meal program, for every case you purchase, we donate a meal to Feeding America, the nation’s largest hunger relief organization. Thanks to our customers, Elara has donated more than 7 million meals, and we expect to surpass 8 million meals in 2024.
Feeding America and their nationwide network of member food banks provide essential assistance to food-insecure children. Some of the programs they offer include:
Backpack Programs
Backpack food programs provide families with free groceries to help cover weekends and school vacations. These food packs contain nutritious, easy-to-make items tailored for kids’ meals.
Food banks collaborate with schools, Boys and Girls Clubs, and local community centers to distribute these backpacks to children in need.
The Feeding America network supports over 10,000 Backpack Programs nationwide. To locate a weekend backpack program, reach out to your school district or nearby food bank. Simply enter your ZIP code in the provided link. Even if the nearest food bank seems distant, they often work with schools and youth organizations closer to your location.
Learn more about Backpack Programs: https://www.feedingamerica.org/our-work/hunger-relief-programs/backpack-program
School Pantries
A school food pantry is a designated space within or near a school that offers free groceries to students and their families. These pantries are supported by partnerships between food banks, community organizations, and school leaders.
The Feeding America network manages nearly 4,000 school pantries across the nation. For more information, inquire at your school, school district, or local food bank.
Learn more about School Pantries: https://www.feedingamerica.org/our-work/hunger-relief-programs/school-pantry
Kids Café
Kids Cafes are after-school initiatives that provide free meals to children, not just after school but also on weekends and during the summer months. These programs also offer engaging activities and academic support. They are typically hosted by community organizations such as Boys and Girls Clubs, churches, libraries, and schools.
The Feeding America network runs nearly 5,000 kids’ meal programs. To find a Kids Cafe or similar programs in your area, contact your nearest member food bank. Even if it seems far away, they often partner with schools and youth groups closer to your community.
Learn more about Kids Cafe: https://www.feedingamerica.org/our-work/hunger-relief-programs/kids-cafe
Summer Meal Programs
Summer meal programs offer free meals to children and teens up to 18 years old, ensuring they have access to nutritious food during the summer months when school is not in session. These programs might also be referred to as free summer meal or lunch programs.
Many summer meal initiatives are funded by the federal government through the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), with food banks responsible for purchasing and delivering these meals to youth programs in your community.
Together, we are tackling childhood hunger
As you can see, Feeding America’s efforts to combat childhood hunger are extensive, touching every corner of the nation through programs designed to meet kids where they are—at school, after school, and even during the summer. By supporting Elara, you’re playing a vital role in this mission, helping to ensure that no child has to go to bed hungry.
Final Thoughts
Your trust in Elara and our partnership with Feeding America allows us to come together as a community to make a real difference for those in need.
As Hunger Action Month begins, we are deeply grateful for your continued support. Together, we’re making a brighter tomorrow possible for so many struggling with food insecurity, including our precious children.
With Gratitude,
Dan Grinberg, Founder & President
Links
https://www.feedingamerica.org/our-work/hunger-relief-programs/backpack-program
https://www.feedingamerica.org/our-work/hunger-relief-programs/school-pantry
https://www.feedingamerica.org/our-work/hunger-relief-programs/kids-cafe
https://www.feedingamerica.org/our-work/hunger-relief-programs/summer-food-service-program
