9 Ways to Give Back This Summer

It’s finally summer — and while we’re excited for the lazy days ahead, for many kids summer is anything but carefree. For millions of kids, the end of school means the end of school meals that guarantee regular access to nutritious food. In Livingston County, we are fighting summer hunger through Summer Food Service Programs.

There is also a lot you and your family can do to help kids facing hunger this summer. In between the pool parties and summer getaways, find time to give back with these fun activities for your family.

1. Get to know the need in your own community. Our local network of food banks run amazing programs, from providing summer meals for kids to teaching healthy cooking classes to gathering unharvested crops from local farms.
2. Set up a lemonade stand to fight summer hunger. Get your kids and your neighbors involved in the mission to end hunger by brewing up some homemade lemonade and donating the proceeds.
3. Plant a family garden and donate part of your harvest to a local food pantry. It’s the ultimate DIY: Use your outdoor space or get involved with a community garden to grow fruits and vegetables that can fill empty plates.
4. Make that 5k go even farther by using an upcoming race as a way to raise money to fight child hunger. Set a fundraising goal to reach by the time of your race and ask your friends and family to support you while you train.
5. Organize a community food drive. Join forces with your church, local supermarket or other community organization to collect donated food.
6. Buy an extra bag of food. When you’re doing your weekly grocery shopping, pick up a few extra nonperishable items and bag separately. Then a few times throughout the summer, drop off your collection at your local food bank. A local family in need can enjoy the same meal as you, making your dinnertime that much more special.
7. Fundraise with your social network. Facebook Fundraisers make it easy to rally your friends and family to support children facing hunger.
8. Volunteer! There’s nothing more rewarding than spending an afternoon making a difference for your own community. There are tons of volunteer opportunities — including kid-friendly activities — at your local food bank and pantries. http://www.volunteerlivingston.org/
9. Spread the word. Educate your friends on the ways you’re fighting child hunger or invite them to volunteer with you. Share with your friends and followers on social media your experience fighting hunger and encourage them to do the same. Check out our America’s Facebook and Twitter pages. Add links to social.

Together we can make summer the season to end hunger!

Adapted from: Feeding America