In June, I had the pleasure of attending the elementary school graduation ceremonies at some of the schools where Feed the Hungry San Miguel has provided students with healthy lunches every day for several years. Seeing our students graduate is an honor and a privilege; it is the culmination of all their hard work and is very gratifying for us. One of the greatest barriers to education is hunger, and one healthy meal a day can help break the cycle of poverty. I like to believe that our support during these formative years will benefit them as they continue their education in secondary school.
This month we are pleased to welcome thousands of children back to school by providing healthy lunches that help them to learn today and to succeed in the future. Back-to-school is a very busy time for all of us at Feed the Hungry, a huge project successful only due to the incredible support of our volunteers and staff who make this all possible. I urge you to consider volunteering for us—in just a few hours a week you can make a difference.
Teachers and principals tell us they witness the improvements in nourished students—they are much more alert and with fewer behavioral issues. Attendance increases because a hot, healthy meal provides an incentive to attend school each day.
This school year, we will be providing more than 5,000 hot balanced meals every school day to students in kinder and elementary school, to help them learn without being weakened and distracted by hunger. We are now kicking off our Back to School Campaign to raise funds to continue our mission. Every dollar and peso counts – just USD$30 provides a daily meal for two children for a month!
We are also excited about plans for our fifth annual Run-Walk-Bike for Food Challenge in October. This popular event brings together hundreds of members of the community to unite in combatting hunger and making a positive change while having a fun day in the beautiful countryside venue. Others join the Challenge virtually from all over the world.
This year marks 40 years since Feed the Hungry San Miguel began its food programs. How did the organization start, and how has it survived? To find out, you can read the surprising and heart-warming stories of our early years and the incredible people whose dedication laid the foundation for what we are able to do today.
We remain ever grateful to our founders, to our current staff and volunteers, and the generosity of our donors. For a wonderful opportunity to get close to a community we serve, become a volunteer delivery driver! On Tuesday mornings, head out to the countryside and see the children’s faces light up as you arrive with the week’s supply of food for the school kitchen. If you are ready for an adventure and the opportunity to see more of greater San Miguel, please email volunteers@feedthehungrysma.org.
Thank you for your support,
Mike Taylor, President, Feed the Hungry San Miguel
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