At No Kid Hungry Virginia, we believe that love is more than just a sentiment—it’s action. One of the most powerful ways to show love and care for kids is by ensuring they have the nutritious meals they need to grow, learn, and thrive.
With one in 7 children in Virginia facing food insecurity, school and summer meals play a crucial role in making sure every child has access to three meals a day, 365 days a year. Whether it’s a warm breakfast before the school day begins or a summer meal at a local park, these programs provide not just nourishment but also stability and connection.
Why School Meals Matter
For many students, school meals are a lifeline, offering consistent access to food that they might not always have at home. Programs like Breakfast After the Bell allow kids to start their day with a healthy meal alongside classmates, fostering both nutrition and community.
Research shows that when students experience food insecurity, they are at higher risk for behavioral, emotional, and educational challenges. Over the summer, when school is out, this risk increases. That’s why programs like summer meals and SUN Bucks are essential in ensuring kids continue to have access to the food they need when school is out of session.
How You Can Help Spread the Love
Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or community member, there are several ways you can help ensure that children receive the nutrition they need:
- Share information about school and summer meals on social media (e.g., Facebook, Instagram, X).
- Talk to your kids about school and summer meals and the importance of nutrition to help them meet their goals in the classroom, on the field, or wherever else their dreams lie.
- Reach out to your local summer meals program to see what kinds of support they need. Many programs use volunteers to make meal service move smoother; others are looking for support from local businesses and community organizations; and others need help spreading the word throughout the community.
- Advocate to your congresspeople.
- Write to your Members of Congress. Urge them to prioritize protecting kids from hunger and hardship.
- Spread the word on Social Media. Feel free to retweet this message or share the following message on any of your social platforms:
- Tell Congress: a new year means a new opportunity to take action to protect kids and families from hunger and hardship. 1 in 5 children in the U.S. faces hunger today. Join me in urging Congress to prioritize federal nutrition and safety net programs. https://bit.ly/4g4b6hn
By taking small actions, we can help ensure that every child in Virginia has the nutrition they need—because every meal is an act of love.