Project Description

Research demonstrates a direct link between inadequate food supply and a poorer overall health status among U.S. children, including health consequences, behavioral impacts and academic outcomes. Hungry children are more likely to develop frequent illnesses and infections and go to the hospital more. Insufficient food supply is associated with an increased incidence of behavioral problems in adolescents, including higher levels of aggression, hyperactivity and anxiety. Research reveals that food-insecure children have greater difficulty getting along with other children, increased chances of being suspended from school, and a greater need for mental health counseling. (Food insecurity refers to limited or uncertain availability of nutritionally adequate foods, or to a lack of access to enough food for an active, healthy life for all household members.)

These findings are particularly troublesome here in Florida, the state with the 10th highest rate of food insecurity in the country for children under 18 years of age. In Florida, one in five children is food insecure even when school is in session and free or reduced-cost breakfasts and lunches are available to them. When school is closed for the weekend, on holidays or for the summer,the problem is exacerbated. Low-income families must then rely even more heavily on food pantries and soup kitchens providing food assistance to local families.

Given the evidence that hunger and food insecurity are significant risk factors in child development and that low-income children are more at risk of hunger when school is closed, efforts are needed to increase the food security of Jacksonville children during those times.

You can help! In the next six month, with your support, Waste Not Want Not will provide food for 20,000 meals to charities serving children on the First Coast. We cannot afford to let our children go hungry.

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