Harry Chapin Food Bank Sponsors Kids’ Food Insecurity Program

Sixty-five thousand Long Island children experience food insecurity. Therefore, one of Long Island Cares’ primary responsibilities is to ensure that they receive a basic human right: nutritious food.

To combat childhood hunger, the Harry Chapin Regional Food Bank of Long Island Cares, Inc. sponsors children-focused programs at Long Island schools; before-and aftercare programs; daycare centers; and private homes.

Among them is Aspara-Gus’ Mobile Breakfast Food Truck, which provides nutritious grab-and-go breakfasts to children in need when school is not in session. The program—supported by allied partners and providers—serves children primarily on weekends.

The organization’s Kids Cafe program provides meals and snacks to kids attending after-school programs. Pack It Up for Kids provides emergency weekend bags containing nutritious meals and snacks. Backpacks are distributed bi-weekly to 25 school districts that have identified children who need food to take home for the weekend.

The Summer Food Service Program operates for eight weeks during the summer, where the food bank works with allied programs and provides on-site meals (breakfast and lunch) to needy children. Lastly, the Mobile School Pantry supports monthly food distributions in the Brentwood and Riverhead Central School

Districts. Distributions are open to families with children.

In 2022, these programs provided 248,419 meals. There is a correlation between learning and poor nutrition, and without proper nourishment, children have a harder time focusing and learning. It is imperative they have the support they need for the best future possible. And so, as children return to school with new duds, new school supplies, and eager to learn and make new friends, please consider the families with children who need a bit more help.

Long Island Cares is committed to serving communities and ensuring that the futures of Long Island’s children are as fulfilling as possible. Visit licares.org for more information.

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