Even in the early morning, we could feel the excitement of summer. As our young neighbors began their day at a camp facilitated by Community Inspired Lexington (CIL), one of our network partners, there was much to look forward to, like “playing at the park and having fun with the activities, and eating,” as 9-year-old Dreden told us.
Dreden loves to swim and practice gymnastics at home with his siblings. He likes a variety of fruits, but, like most kids his age, really loves donuts. He has a bright smile and positive attitude. And because his camp served as a partnering Summer Meals Program site, the Food Bank and CIL helped ensure summer break for Dreden wasn’t a break from nourishment. With consistent access to healthy food, his days were filled with more laughter, curiosity, and imagination.
Nearly half a million children in Kentucky count on school nutrition programs to eat. During the summer months, when school is out of session and school meals are no longer available, food banks and others step in with programming to help kids get the nourishment they need. The Summer Meals Program is a critical source of food for so many young people who would otherwise be missing meals. Thankfully, this year the program has expanded to include 29 sites across Central and Eastern Kentucky and hopes to help provide more than 26,000 meals.
Food is essential, especially for developing youth. We want kids to thrive and continue looking forward, not only to the next fun-filled summer day, but also to when they will become “an EMT,” “a gymnast,” or “SpiderMan,” as Dreden and his friends said they hoped to be one day. We know that when children are fed, their futures are nourished; it’s one of many reasons why we are so grateful for your support. Our work together not only moves us toward a future where no Kentucky child goes hungry, it also cultivates the foundation that’s needed for their best aspirations to flourish. For our kids and for our Commonwealth, let’s keep going.
