Zoey’s Wish
When that final bell of the school year ends, children burst out the doors, buzzing with delight. It’s summer vacation! But for many children, there’s not much to celebrate, because summer can be synonymous with hunger. Many kids who qualify for free (or reduced-price) meals in school are suddenly facing a few months without that service.
But that’s where your support comes in. Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin and its partners serve children and families all year round through a variety of programs. Children like Zoey are thankful. At Zoey’s house, there’s not always enough food for the whole family. Her parents sometimes skip meals so the kids can eat. “And that makes me sad,” says Zoey, 8, one of five children. She says her family sometimes eats rice for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, because that’s all they can afford. She’s sad about that too.
But the pantry is helping Zoey and her family get more — and more nutritious — food. “The pantry helps us because it gives us food to eat,” Zoey says. “It gives us cereal and milk. It gives us lunch and dinner too.”
That’s the kind of help you provide with your kindness. And Zoey completely understands how important it is. “Food makes you healthy,” she says. “It makes you strong and it helps you grow.”
Zoey’s family struggles to get by on a limited income. Her dad, Mikel, is a disabled Army veteran who tries to fill the gaps as a part-time mechanic. And Zoey’s mom, Tiffany, stays at home to take care of the children. Despite those struggles, Zoey — a bright, bubbly kid who loves animals and playing outside — stays positive. Her energy and hope shine through even in the most challenging of times. “My family is big,” she says. “But if I had one wish for my family, it would be that we all have food to eat.”
Thanks to friends like you, Zoey’s wish is coming true. With your gift today, you can help more families like hers this summer.
