Each week, on Friday, Belly Buddies helps elementary school children have food to carry home for the weekend in their backpack. Food items include canned ravioli, pasta, fruit, breakfast bars, cereal, and other non-perishable food items. This kid-friendly food is lightweight and easy for kids to handle, with no cooking required.
On Monday, the kids return to school but with a better and healthier foundation for learning. Our goal is to en sure elementary school children, at least on week ends, will have basic nutrition, so that they can be happier, healthier, and ready to learn and grow!
How many children have we helped? In 2016, we began serving approximately 20 students at Glendale Elementary. In 2023, we provided belly bags to 55 students each week! With our newly gained 501c3 status, we are looking forward to expanding to more schools in Eunice, and serving more students.
Why We Do
In St. Landry Parish, the number of children in the free and reduced-price meal program is 100%, with many of them at risk of childhood hunger and malnutrition.
When we talk about the risk of childhood hunger we base it on the fact the lunch program available in public schools around the country has been recognized by our government and various charities as the key indicator of hunger risk and poverty in a geographic area.
Childhood hunger leads to a weaker immune system, difficulty in learning and paying attention in class, and behaving properly to retain what they learn. Hungry kids are sick more often and have lower academic achievement.
