Stories

There’s never been a question about Tamara Sandberg’s future. She knew early on that she’d work for a non-profit organization. And it would be one that focuses on hunger relief. “I just think it’s unacceptable that in one of the richest nations in the world that anybody would go to bed without the food they need. So, that’s been my passion.”

It’s only 7:00 am, but the YMCA gymnasium in Bethany, Oklahoma, is already buzzing with activity. “We know that, right here in Oklahoma County, it’s estimated that 37,000 children don’t always have enough access to the nutritious food they need to thrive and succeed,”

It’s a rainy day in Clarksville, Tennessee. Despite the cloud cover and raindrops, there’s excitement in the air. Today, military families will receive food, household essentials and much more.

With summer heating up, millions of children are struggling to find the fun in the season. Their families are stretching their budgets to the breaking point. With almost 30 million students who qualify for free and reduced-price meals at school, this summer could be catastrophic.

When we think of summer, we think of carefree days. For many students, that’s the case. But research shows that there’s a downside to that.

“I keep everything that they send me, and it’s all on my desk. I display it so my coworkers can come by and see how beautiful each of the children are,” Deb Riley told us, smiling and glancing at half-dozen photocopied pictures.

Most of us imagine summer break as a time of play and relaxation for kids. The phrase “summer slide” sounds like it belongs in that picture – like a slide at a playground or water park, it should be something fun, right?

Hunger is around us every day. During the summer months, the problem can affect even more kids. Almost 30 million students in U.S. public schools qualify for the federally assisted meal program. Students who receive a free or reduced-price school lunch during the school year are especially at risk in the summer.