PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – The Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank has brought to light a concerning issue. Child food insecurity in Western Pennsylvania has seen a significant rise of 33% compared to last year. In today's Sunday Spotlight, we are about to explore how they are dedicated to ensuring that kids in our area are well-fed.

Empowering Kids with Food Security

Understanding the Problem

Kelsey Gross from the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank emphasizes that one in six kids in our area face food insecurity. This means they lack consistent access to the necessary food for a healthy life. It's a distressing reality that many children go to bed worrying about their next meal.

Such a high percentage highlights the urgent need for action. The food bank realizes that without proper nutrition, kids may struggle to focus in class and participate in various activities. It's a cycle that needs to be broken.

The Child Hunger Hero Award Program

This program works in collaboration with community sponsors and schools. It aims to provide food to those kids who need it the most. Through this initiative, they are able to ensure that kids can eat even when they are not in the school building.

The award recognizes food service professionals who go above and beyond. They serve healthy meals after school, on weekends, and during the summer. By doing so, they are making a significant impact on the lives of these children.

Making a Difference

Gross mentioned that they have served more meals than ever in the past year. This shows the effectiveness of their efforts and the growing need for such programs. Their goal is to put all kids on an equal playing field, providing them with the nutrition they need to thrive.

With food insecurity on the rise every year, they are constantly looking for ways to expand and roll out more programs. By doing so, they hope to provide the necessary food support to the kids in our region.

You can support the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank and their work for kids in Western Pennsylvania by visiting their website. Let's come together to make a difference in the lives of these children.