How Federal Programs Are Helping Hungry Children in Maryland
New federal government programs, and changes to existing programs in response to the COVID pandemic, have made an enormous difference in the lives of many children throughout Maryland.
New federal government programs, and changes to existing programs in response to the COVID pandemic, have made an enormous difference in the lives of many children throughout Maryland.
Childhood hunger affects 1 in 7 of Maryland’s kids. The Maryland Food Bank runs a number of programs to ensure they have all the food they need to succeed.
MyPlate is the United States Department of Agriculture’s set of guidelines for helping kids establish healthy eating habits. The MyPlate model simplifies the “Food Pyramid” that many Americans grew up with into five food groups: vegetables, fruits, grains, protein, and dairy. All of our MFB Kids programs (Summer Clubs, Supper Clubs, School Pantries, and HEART Markets) follow the MyPlate guidelines to ensure that kids (and their families) are able to build a solid nutritional foundation, positioning them for success.
While we are grateful to our Summer Club partners, there is much more work to be done to reach the thousands of kids across the state who want to enjoy break without worrying about hunger.
To help alleviate the summer meal gap for children, the Maryland Food Bank provides free meals to kids through the Summer Club program at partner sites like Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCAs, and other recreation centers.
Check out the latest local and national news about the Maryland Food Bank and how we’re addressing hunger in our communities.