Feed Our Children came into existence because some caring individuals were made aware of children in our local schools that were going hungry each weekend. As shocking as it is, there was even one incident of children rummaging through a garbage dumpster looking for food. Through the mutual cooperation of two different churches in Spencer, Feed Our Children became a tool to see that these children at risk would be assured of food to sustain them through the weekend. Statistics show that hungry children have lower test scores, diminished learning capacity, increased behavioral problems and increased tardiness and absences. During the school week these children participate in the federal free and reduced breakfast and lunch programs, but when the weekend arrives they have no assurance that there will be anything for them to eat at home. Guidance counselors in the Spencer elementary schools identify the children at risk for weekend hunger. Each child that has been determined to be at risk receives enough food for four meals and two snacks each weekend. The items selected are nutritious, come in single servings and can be easily eaten with or without heating up in a microwave. The approximate cost is $6.00 per week for each child.
