HUNGER HEROES: Serving Hope Across the Island of Puerto Rico
For over 11 years, El Comedor de la Kennedy has brought together volunteers and collaborators to eradicate food insecurity in Puerto Rico. They focus primarily on families with children and the elderly but extending their services to all in need. Across the island and its 78 municipalities – El Comedor de la Kennedy feeds thousands each week. When the pandemic hit, No Kid Hungry was able to provide funding to support their critical efforts across Puerto Rico.
The team delivers free hot food and groceries to 45 communities – serving 2000 kids and more than 5,000 people – each week. The grocery bag includes protein, vegetables, pasta, rice, oil, juice, snacks for children, cereal, milk, sauce, and cleaning supplies.
According to the Institute of Youth Development of Puerto Rico, 6 out of 10 children live in poverty and 58% of those under 18 years of age live in extreme poverty. For many children, their only food source is from the school cafeteria as it is not uncommon to find their families choosing between paying their medical bills or eating. It makes programs like this one even more important.
El Comedor de la Kennedy is there to meet children in their unique circumstances across the island. They are providing nourishment and contributing to children’s safety and emotional stability. Every plate of hot food, bag of supplies, and every visit they make gives them courage, faith, and hope. Their organization is the place where the table is served for Puerto Ricans by Puerto Ricans.
“When people receive our help, they are receiving hope, they recognize that someone is thinking of them, and they can see the light along the way.” – Chef Ivan Clemente
