One of the largest gaps in childhood hunger in Central Florida is food resources for teens. Teens play an active role in feeding their families, however, barriers such as stigma prevent teens from accessing the food they need. The School Partnerships Program is an innovative intervention for teen hunger and food insecurity.
School partnerships are established to provide free snacks, meal items, and fresh produce to students without question of need or eligibility. The stigma barrier is reduced by incorporating students into the development of the market, offering client choice, and eliminating the traditional registration system.
The School Partnerships Program establishes partnerships between not-for-profit community organizations, such as churches, Rotary Clubs, Kiwanis, and local middle and high schools in their community to specifically address teen hunger. Community organizations support our educators by providing a critical resource to make sure students are successful and that our educators can focus on what they do best!
Students who are hungry are less likely to focus on their education. Investing in the success of our youth means a brighter future for us all.
If you are interested in learning more or getting started, download the School Partnerships Toolkit here.