It’s impossible to concentrate in math class, contribute to group projects or stay on top of homework when all you can think about is not what but if there will be dinner.
Second Harvest’s School Partnership Program meets students and families where they are – at school. With snack packs, school markets and fresh produce distributions, each partnership aims to expand access to the nutritious food students need to learn and thrive, while allowing food to take home for the entire family.
“This really helps us and I get to make some of the shopping choices,” says Melissa. She and her mom walked through an after-school market at her middle school.
“Like a lot of people, we keep getting caught off guard with higher and higher prices,” her mom adds. “It’s just the two of us and one paycheck.”
They leave with one bag filled with fresh fruits and vegetables like bananas, avocados, bell peppers, onions and a pineapple. A second bag has oatmeal, soups, rice, pasta and other pantry staples.
“There are days we feel forgotten because we don’t qualify for government assistance, but we still face many challenges,” adds Melissa’s mom. “Thank you for thinking of us.”
