Hunger deprives our kids of more than just food

It’s a simple fact: A child’s chance for a bright tomorrow starts with getting enough food to eat today. But this year, due in part to the coronavirus pandemic, 105,850 East Texas children – 1 in every 3 kids – may not know where they will get their next meal.

Kids who don’t get enough to eat — especially during their first three years — begin life at a serious disadvantage. When they’re hungry, children are more likely to be hospitalized and they face higher risks of health conditions like anemia and asthma. And as they grow up, kids struggling to get enough to eat are more likely to have problems in school and other social situations.

The East Texas Food Bank works to fight hunger for children through year-round programs. On the weekends, our Backpack Program provides easy to open food that doesn’t require any cooking. After school, the Kids Café program provides healthy snacks and meals. During the summer, the Summer Food Program provides healthy breakfast and lunch meals. At home, our Food Pantry Partners and Benefits Assistance Program provide meals for the whole family.

We have a responsibility to the next generation to give them every opportunity to succeed — which in turn will strengthen our East Texas communities. That’s why feeding children facing hunger is a main priority for the East Texas Food Bank, but we can’t do it without your help. September is Hunger Action Month and we need everyone helping us fight hunger.

No action is too small! Sharingvolunteeringfundraising and donating are a few ways you can help us fight hunger. See how you can be a hunger hero for the children in your community by clicking here,