Strong Kids, Strong Communities: The Power of Consistent Nutrition

Adrian is taller than many of his classmates. He eats everything on his lunch tray before heading to the playground at Whittier Elementary to play a game that has a pack of children running across the asphalt lot after a wildly bouncing ball. 

To be able to run, jump, play and concentrate in the classroom, Adrian receives breakfast and lunch at school, and he frequently takes home a BackSnack on the weekends.  

“My mom is grateful,” he said. “It can help out a lot. I share some with my family. The cans I give to my mom and my dad, and I put the rest in the cabinet.” 

Goldfish crackers and Takis, a spicy Mexican chip, are among Adrian’s favorite snacks. He also likes the “walking taco” served in the school cafeteria. 

Adrian’s father works. He has an older and younger brother, and his mother is expecting a baby. The family is thankful for what they have, always starting their meals with a prayer.  

Solving hunger is “a hard question,” Adrian said, then adds, “all the people that need food, give them food so they won’t starve.”  

“When I’m hungry I usually ask for permission from my mom and I ask if I can get something to eat, and if she says yes, I get a snack,” he said. 

Adrian is not alone: One in six children don’t know where their next meal is coming from. 

His message for Harvesters and to those who donate food, money or time: “Keep donating, keep sending more food, and thank you for all the hard work.”