This May, we celebrate the school employees and programs that ensure every child has the nutrition they need to reach their full potential. With California’s Universal School Meals program, students have access to breakfast and lunch at no cost. But the work does not stop there. Barriers such as stigma and transportation challenges continue to make it difficult for many kids to participate. Because every child deserves three meals a day to grow up happy, healthy, and strong, our work to fight child hunger is not done in isolation. The Hunger Hero Awards recognize school employees who have rallied against child hunger and have been champions for school meals in the classroom and beyond. Here are six honorees for this year’s California Hunger Hero Awards:
- Irma Mondragon, Kitchen Operator at Bing Wong Elementary, San Bernardino City Unified School District
Irma Mondragon is a pioneering force in the San Bernardino City Unified School District, spearheading the introduction of breakfast in the classroom as one of the first Serving Kitchen Operators. Her innovative approach has led to a significant increase in breakfast participation, positively impacting student well-being. Through breakfast in the classroom, Irma ensures every student begins their day with a nutritious meal, fostering an environment conducive to academic success. Her dedication to student nutrition and the overall well-being of the school community is evident in her pioneering efforts, exemplifying her unwavering commitment to student success.
- Kathleen Delgado, Dance Teacher at Barton Elementary School, San Bernardino City Unified School District
Affectionately known as Dancin’ Delgado, Ms. Delgado is Barton Elementary’s devoted dance teacher, deeply committed to student well-being. Understanding the significance of a nutritious breakfast, she has taken proactive measures to ensure every student receives their morning meal promptly. With two totes in hand, she delivers breakfast to the classroom door by 8:45 a.m., ensuring students start their day with nourishment. After breakfast, she efficiently collects the totes, returning them to the cafeteria to repeat the process. Ms. Delgado’s unwavering dedication ensures no student misses out on a nutritious start. Her proactive approach and daily presence underscore her dedication to student success, making her an invaluable asset to the Barton school community.
- Glen Woods, Nutrition Services Supervisor, San Bernardino City Unified School District
In his 19-year tenure as Nutrition Services Supervisor at SBCUSD, Glen has demonstrated exceptional leadership. Under his guidance, nutrition programs have thrived, fostering a supportive work environment where creative solutions flourish. Glen’s compassion and empathy drive his commitment to student well-being, exemplified by his spearheading of breakfast in the classroom. Despite challenges, he passionately oversaw its successful implementation in six sites, reflecting his unwavering dedication to enhancing student nutrition district-wide. Glen’s integrity, professionalism, and relentless pursuit of improvement make him indispensable to SBCUSD, embodying the values of service and leadership.
- Nailly Salib, Kitchen Operator at Virginia Primrose Elementary School, Fontana Unified School District
Nailly Salib’s steadfast commitment to supporting school meals distinguishes her as an invaluable asset in her role as the cafeteria kitchen operator. Ensuring each meal is not only nutritious but also prepared with care, she cultivates a welcoming atmosphere for scholars. Nailly’s proactive initiatives, such as organizing monthly pizza days, alleviate hunger and foster community joy. Her exemplary leadership inspires exceptional service from staff, fulfilling the mission of nourishing scholars. Reflecting a deep belief in the fundamental right to food security, Nailly’s spirit of compassion and selflessness shines through. Her dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment truly establish her as a hunger hero deserving of celebration.
- Brenda Barker Andrews, Custodial Trades Supervisor, Morongo Unified School District
Ms. Barker-Andrews, a well-regarded supervisor, epitomizes a can-do attitude, kindness, and respect. Her unwavering passion for student wellness drives her dedication as custodial trades supervisor. Witnessing her full support for the breakfast in the classroom program, we’ve seen her ensure meals reach every student. Her leadership sets a precedent, making tasks more manageable. Without her support, our mission would face insurmountable challenges. We’re immensely grateful for her contributions, recognizing her as a true hunger hero, shining brightly in her commitment to student well-being.
- Desiree Hernandez, Site Supervisor at Oasis Elementary School, Morongo Unified School District
Desiree’s dedication as a site supervisor is unmatched, ensuring smooth operations with her unwavering work ethic and friendly approach. Her boundless positivity and eagerness to assist others distinguish her, tackling challenges with grace. As an advocate for school meal programs, Desiree guarantees students receive nourishing food and a delightful dining experience. Her attention to detail ensures meals meet dietary guidelines and tantalize students’ palates. Desiree’s initiative for breakfast in the classroom underscores her commitment to student well-being, ensuring every child starts their day right. Through her efforts, she cultivates healthy eating habits, empowering students to make nutritious choices. Desiree’s impact extends beyond the cafeteria, exemplifying true leadership and dedication to the school community’s betterment.
At No Kid Hungry, we believe every single person has a strength to share, and together, we can ensure every kid is equipped to succeed and thrive throughout the school year. Join us in celebrating and thanking this year’s Hunger Hero Award honorees as well as the teachers and school staff who feed and care for kids day in and day out.
Ways You Can Help:
— #ThankHungerHeroes: We invite you to join No Kid Hungry to celebrate and thank school nutrition staff, teachers, and the many other school employees who feed and care for our kids.
— Donate: 1 dollar can help provide 10 meals for kids in need. Your support will help us fund school meal programs all over California and the country and help us advocate for policies that will help kids get the meals they need.
Last reviewed: May 7, 2024