“Back to school” may look different this year, but as children start the new school year, millions are still struggling to get the most important school supply: food.
In fact, 1 in 4 kids in the United States could face hunger this year because of the coronavirus, a sharp increase from before the pandemic. But all kids need healthy food to learn, grow and reach their full potential.
Just ask Clint Mitchell, a principal in Fairfax County, Virginia.
“If they are fed and their tummies are full, then they are ready for the instructional day,” he said. It’s something we hear from educators all the time, and parents too.
Montana mom Teresa can see it in her 5-year-old son, Rylan.
“If he’s hungry, he’s not going to be successful,” she said. “The only thing I want is for him to be successful and have the tools to do that.”
But because of coronavirus-related school closures and the economic crisis, kids across the country are facing closed cafeterias and empty cupboards at home. Too many are going hungry, and going without the fuel to succeed.
“When I'm hungry, I can't really study and learn,” said 8-year-old Kaelyn in Florida. “I'm really tired because I haven't had anything to eat.”
At No Kid Hungry, we have a plan to help feed these kids, but we need you. When you dine, shop or share with one of our partner brands now through October, you can help give kids the meals they need to thrive.
Whether ordering dinner to go or your next bit of fashion, find a participating brand and learn how you can connect kids with the most important school supply they’ll ever need, during and beyond this crisis.
“Eating gives you energy so you can get ready to learn,” said 10-year-old Jackson in Montana. “I like learning because I like making my brain grow smarter.”
Dine, shop and share today to support children like Jackson coast to coast. Hungry kids need you now.
