Get meat to kids in need.
Child food insecurity affects the physical, mental, and emotional health of children.
Physical health:
Children who are food insecure are more likely to suffer from chronic diseases, such as diabetes, obesity, asthma, and anemia. They are also more likely to experience hunger, fatigue, headaches, stomachaches, and infections. Food insecurity can also impair the growth and development of children, leading to stunted height, low weight, and poor bone health.
mental Health:
Children who are food insecure are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, stress, and low self-esteem. They are also more likely to have difficulty concentrating, learning, and remembering. Food insecurity can also affect the cognitive and brain development of children, resulting in lower IQ, reduced verbal skills, and impaired executive function.
emotional health:
Children who are food insecure are more likely to exhibit behavioral problems, such as aggression, hyperactivity, impulsivity, and withdrawal. They are also more likely to have social difficulties, such as isolation, bullying, and poor relationships with peers and adults. Food insecurity can also affect the emotional regulation and attachment of children, leading to increased fear, anger, sadness, and insecurity.
HOW YOU CAN HELP
GFJA is partnering with the Backpack Program at St. Leo Food Connection in Tacoma, WA. The program provides backpacks with two days of food so children can come to school on Monday well-fed and ready to learn.
Until December 31, 2023, all donations will be used to purchase and send Paleovalley’s 100% grass-fed beef sticks to the Backpack Program. You’ll be providing kids with nutritious snacks which is critical to their brain’s growth and development.
The Global Food Justice Alliance advocates for the right of all people to choose nutrient-dense foods such as meat, milk, and eggs, which are critical for nutritious, environmentally sustainable, and equitable food systems that can sustain both human life and the planet.
And now you can help us get quality protein to communities in need.
Each dollar provides kids with nutritious meat sticks and supports GFJA’s education and advocacy program to spread the word about the benefits of meat and livestock!
the Food Connection backpack program
In Tacoma Public Schools, 71.84% students are enrolled in Free & Reduced Lunch.
The Backpack Program provides weekend food to 1468 students in the Tacoma, Clover Park, and Puyallup School District each week.
Each bag has 2 breakfast items, 2 lunch items, 3 dinner items, 2 snacks, and 2 pieces of fruit. In addition to the weekly food bags, the program supports another 2049 students with snacks and/or take-home items during the week to ensure they have something to eat once they leave school.
