Children are going hungry in Lee County
When we think of hungry children, we think of developing nations. It can be hard to imagine those problems exist here – in our community.
In Southwest Florida, it’s becoming increasingly difficult for parents to feed their children. Inflation, job-loss, and low wages are very real challenges for many parents. On average, today’s minimum wage has 30% less purchasing power than it did in the ‘70s. In some cases parents work jobs with wages so low they can’t afford to buy groceries.
When parents are unable to feed their children; Federal Food Assistance programs step-in. In these rapidly changing times, however, it’s hard to keep up with the growing demand. The latest statistics show:
- Florida ranks fourth in the United States for the number of K-12 students eligible for Federal Food Assistance programs.
- In Lee County more than 62% of K-12 students participate in those programs.
An $80 donation will feed a child for one full school year!
Blessings in a Backpack helps prevent hunger
The “Blessings in a Backpack” program steps-up where federal aid stops by feeding children on the weekend. Every Friday afternoon, children receive backpacks filled with kid-friendly, ready-to-eat items. Students return every Monday morning with an empty backpack, a full stomach, and an eager mind. In the schools we work with In Lee County test scores, reading skills, positive behavior, general health, and attendance have improved dramatically. This happens when children get the nourishment they need.
Donate
We rely on private donors like you. 100% of donor proceeds go to feeding children in our backyard. Kids are our future; you can help theirs. An $80 donation will feed a child for one full school year! Donations of all sizes are welcome at through our donations portal or via mail at 12271 Towne Lake Drive, Fort Myers, Florida 33971. All contributions are tax-deductible.
