The Need for Blessings
For a developing child, consistent nutrition is critical to leading a full, healthy life and succeeding at school.
Food insecurity impacts children's health, social development, cognitive growth and general well-being.
The Devastating Effects of Hunger
-Mothers with school-aged children who face severe hunger are 56.2% more likely to have PTSD and 53.1% more likely to have severe depression. *
-Hunger can cause children to be cranky, hyperactive, and aggressive. These behavioral issues can distract kids from their school work, leading to developmental delays and learning disabilities. Fifty percent of children facing hunger will need to repeat a grade.**
-According to the USDA, there is a strong connection between hunger and chronic diseases like high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes.
*Source: American Academy of Pediatrics
**Source: Feeding America Org
The Results of Blessings in Schools
Student survey results show that children fed by Blessings in a Backpack experience the following positive results:
78% FEEL CARED FOR BY THEIR COMMUNITY
71% FEEL THEY ARE HELPING THEIR FAMILY
60% HAVE FEWER BEHAVIORAL ISSUES
59% FIND IT IS EASIER TO LEARN AT SCHOOL