This is an excerpt from our article with The Chronicle.
As families begin preparing for the holiday season, I find myself reflecting on an uncomfortable but inescapable truth: here in our own backyard, many children are heading into the holidays facing food insecurity.
Food insecurity is more than just an empty stomach for a few hours – it’s a barrier to healthy development, good school performance and long-term opportunity. When a child worries about their next meal, it’s hard to focus on algebra homework, rest well at night or feel safe in their own home.
One child’s small moment brings these challenges into sharp focus.
One afternoon a few years ago, a student at Crystal River Primary hopped onto their bike and headed home, as they did every day. When they arrived home, they suddenly remembered something: they had forgotten to pick up their Blessings weekend bag.
Continue reading the full article on The Chronicle website: