Recently, the four of us joined best-selling novelist John Grisham in sending a letter to our friends in the Texas legal community about an issue we think is critical: making sure that Texas kids have enough to eat during this time of great trial and uncertainty. See more here.
As you know, the Coronavirus pandemic has caused not only a health crisis across our nation, but also an economic crisis for many families. Millions of Americans are facing unemployment, fewer hours, and/or lost wages, and this has caused many to struggle with food insecurity—some for the very first time. Right here in Texas, 2.3 million kids are likely to face hunger this year. That’s nearly one in three children in our state.
Because of this urgent need, the four of us are joining with John Grisham to urge you to support an organization with a proven track record of rising to meet these critical challenges. No Kid Hungry (NKH) has mobilized a massive effort to provide schools and community partners in Texas with the financial resources they need to keep children fed during these unprecedented times. Because of NKH’s relationships with school leaders and program providers in Texas, and considerable experience as advocates and grantmakers, they are uniquely positioned to lead this effort.
John Grisham voiced his support:
“My wife Renee and I are deeply committed to the effort to end childhood hunger in America. We support the No Kid Hungry project and have seen firsthand its impact on some of our most vulnerable children. Texas lawyers are known for their work ethic and generosity. Please join us in this effort.”
Since March, the NKH team has delivered critically needed technical assistance and funding to organizations throughout Texas that are working on the hunger crisis’ frontlines, and granted more than $2.1 million to 80 Texas school districts, food banks, and community organizations. These funds allowed schools and community organizations to innovate in real time, and find new ways to deliver meals to children and families, whether on bus routes or drive-through pick-up sites.
In addition, as part of its direct emergency relief efforts in Texas, NKH is working to help schools navigate rapid changes in state and district policies, adjust food delivery models to serve meals safely, and access financial resources to make sure they don’t deplete their own operating budgets.
As the crisis drags on and great uncertainty remains as to whether schools will open their doors this fall, there is still a desperate need for funding of labor and materials, including protective gear for workers, transportation, and food.
More than 22 million public school students across the nation—nearly 2.7 million in Texas alone—rely on the free, nutritious meals they get at school. “Back to school” may look different this year, but one thing we know: nearly one in three kids in Texas likely will struggle with hunger this year, so the nutrition they receive from school meals will be crucial to help them learn, grow, and reach their full potential.
Besides John Grisham’s request to support this important cause, the four of us ask for your support to stand with us in feeding hungry kids in Texas.
Please consider supporting this incredible effort by making a personal or corporate contribution. Currently, we are at $1 million toward our $5 million goal of emergency funding for Texas. These dollars are needed now. Your support will ensure that Texas kids will not have to worry about hunger. You can give online here or by mailing a check to Attn: No Kid Hungry Texas, Share Our Strength, P.O. Box 75475, Baltimore MD 21275-5475.
Thank you!