Allison, 8, is an avid reader and enthusiastic about school. She loves to read historical biographies, and lights up as she shares what she’s learning with those around her.
With a new school year now underway, Allison is excited to continue reading and learning. But like all kids, she needs nutritious food to be able to concentrate on her studies. That’s why Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee partners with schools and feeding sites in our community, like McMurray Middle Prep, which hosts a Kids Cafe and School Food Pantry Program for their students and other local children and families in need.
Today, Allison comes to McMurray Middle with her little brother, Kevin, to enjoy a healthy afterschool meal at the Kids Cafe before their mom, Maria, picks them up this evening.
Through this Second Harvest partnership, Maria also has access to the school food pantry on site, where she can pick up some of Allison and Kevin’s favorite foods that are often difficult to afford on her limited income.
Allison’s excited to be able to visit the pantry with her family. Clearly a bright child, she knows the food they receive will help ensure she and her brother can grow up strong and healthy — and she’s grateful you help provide it.
“[You] give us food to survive,” Allison says, matter-of-factly.
Through these programs, kids from struggling families can receive a balanced meal and healthy groceries so they won’t have to face the uncertainty of hunger – and kids like Allison can focus on their studies.
Before she and the children head home for the day, Maria stops to express her gratitude for your help feeding Allison and Kevin.
“Thank you for the food!” she says with a warm smile.