What does it feel like to be so hungry, you can't think of anything but when you will get your next meal?
Shocking to think that is how one in four school children feels right now, according to the latest statistics. With the economy's collapse and so many parents still without jobs, many are having to make painful choices. Sadly, many kids feel the consequences the hardest.
Teachers see it first-hand: the look of kids who can't focus, lack energy and don't seem to care about schoolwork. One teacher told me in our "Child Hunger Ends Here" special about showing kids how to make glue in his science class. One of the ingredients they were using was milk. A student raised her hand and said she would rather drink the milk than make the glue because she had not had anything to eat since the night before. Next thing he knew, four other kids asked if they too could drink the milk because they also were hungry.
The good news when they're at school, they're being fed. The bad news: When they are not in school, they go hungry or make poor food choices because junk food is cheaper than nutritious food. This is United States of America, yet we are dealing with a hunger epidemic. It's worth remembering, as one of the most generous countries we always rush to the aid of others. Well, look within your own community and see what's really going on. Check out the local food pantry and soup kitchen, and if you're in a position to help, please do. Children who are hungry do not learn, can't focus and will struggle harder through life. Let's give them better odds.
--Natalie Morales, TODAY
For more information and ways to help, you can go to Feeding America and Child Hunger Ends Here.