Even on the Worst Days, I Get to Feed People

Thousands of children in our area depend on school breakfast, lunch, and weekend backpack programs for their daily food. If they're not at school, they're not getting the nourishment they need.

Thanks to your continued support and individuals like Jess Hudson, the Food Bank's Child & Senior Hunger Programs Manager, we are effectively meeting their needs head-on.

Through our School Mobile Pantry Program, "We go to a different school each night throughout the week, Monday through Thursday," Jess said. "We're not just giving out canned goods. We're providing fresh foods, like protein, bread, eggs, fresh fruits, and vegetables." Today, at Devonshire Elementary School, we'll serve around 200 families. "We have the food all pre‑packed and ready to go. They drive through and we put the food in their car," Jess explains.

Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina also works with the school systems through our Backpack Program. "We have seven healthy items in a backpack that we distribute to food-insecure kids throughout North and South Carolina, on weekends when school meals are missing" Jess said. 

Seeing kids endure the pain of hunger every day gives Jess a deep insight into their troubles. She explains, "I have a greater understanding of how important food and nutrition is. It's a trickle-down effect. If kids aren't fed, they can't study, they can't perform, they can't behaviorally be there and be present."

Jess continues, "So I think it all starts with what we're doing , and then hopefully, they're better students, better people, better members of society." Beaming from ear to ear, Jess said, "I love what I'm doing. And even on the toughest days, I get to feed people and feed families. I couldn't ask for a better opportunity. It's super humbling and you meet great people along the way. I'm blessed to be in this role. I honestly couldn't see myself doing anything else."

Because of your generosity, motivated individuals like Jess can get desperately needed food to children who need it to survive and thrive - giving them real hope today and for their futures.