For kids across Eastern Wisconsin, the arrival of summer means more time to explore nature, participate in outdoor sports, and hang out with friends. But for many families, the arrival of summer comes with its own set of challenges. When school is out, hundreds of children across our footprint lose access to the healthy meals they receive for free during the school year. Once school lets out for the summer, kids should be thinking about which park to play in, not worrying about where their next meal will come from. Sadly, 1-in-6 children in Eastern Wisconsin are currently facing hunger, and losing a reliable source of nutritious meals during the summer months is a major contributing factor.
Summer hunger is real – and it can have devastating, long-term consequences for children. A child’s growth, their resistance to disease, their ability to focus and learn, their energy, and their behavior are all affected by what they eat. Join Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin in ensuring kids have the fuel they need to enjoy summer by making a gift to the Healthy Kids, Healthy Summer campaign, in partnership with Meijer.
Here’s some good news! Thanks to a $20,000 matching gift from the Schmerein Heaney Family Fund and the Heaney Family Fund within the Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region, your gift will DOUBLE in impact! That’s right, thanks to this generous match, a donation of just $63 provides meals for TWO children for an entire summer!
Help support the Healthy Kids, Healthy Summer campaign by making a donation using the donation form below and ensure children have the nourishment they need all summer long. Your impact DOUBLES today thanks to our match!
MEET THE LUNCHBOXES
Each of our colorful lunchbox characters has a unique story to share about the importance of providing nutritious meals to kids during the summer months. We invite individuals of all ages to download, print, and color each lunchbox’s coloring page or for those who are very ambitious, the full set!
Once you’ve added your artistic touch, please drop off your creations to our Milwaukee or Appleton campuses, or scan and email them to [email protected]. Your artwork may be featured on our social media channels throughout the Healthy Kids, Healthy Summer campaign, helping to spread awareness and brighten our community!
Ruby is the leader of the pack. She’s bright, bold, and always thinking about others before herself. She believes no child should go hungry just because school’s out for summer. With her heart full and her snacks packed tight, she’s here to spread the word and fill the gap for kids who rely on school meals.
Sunny’s got energy for days and a big appetite for making a difference. He’s an adventurous spirit, always ready to run, jump, and help a friend in need. With his cap turned and tongue out, he’s hungry for change and for making sure no kid goes without lunch this summer.
Ben’s the best buddy you didn’t know you needed. He’s cheerful, dependable, and always ready with a goofy grin. While he may not be the loudest in the bunch, he’s got a big heart and an even bigger mission: to make sure no kid goes hungry just because school’s out. Ben’s packing hope, one bite at a time.
Peaches is all pep and purpose. She’s sharp, stylish, and always thinking two snacks ahead. With her bow in place and heart on her sleeve, she’s leading the charge to make sure no kid feels forgotten when school is out. Her motto? “Summer should be sweet, but never hungry.”
Grady’s the thoughtful one. He’s shy but wise, and always full of good ideas. He knows that summer should mean sunshine and playtime, not hungry stomachs. He’s rallying others to help ensure kids have the nutrition they need.
Chase is the cool breeze on a hot summer day. With his shades always on and a laid-back vibe, he believes every kid deserves a full stomach and a fun summer. He’s here to turn up the heat on summer hunger and help keep every lunchbox full.
A special thank you to Plum Media for their incredible hard work on the creative for this campaign!
