Child hunger continues to be an issue that many families face. Research shows that 1 in 5 children across the state will experience limited or uncertain access to food. Young Hoosiers should not have to worry about where their next meal will come from.
House lawmakers recently partnered with the Indiana Division of The Salvation Army to collect new and gently used backpacks, and non-perishable food items like peanut butter, canned fruits and vegetables, oatmeal, granola bars, and crackers. Together, we collected over 200 backpacks and more than 5,300 snacks and kid-friendly food items as a result of this donation drive. Lawmakers filled these backpacks for the Salvation Army to distribute to schools across the state to help kids in need.
Between lunch on Friday and breakfast on Monday, Hoosier students often face a period of 68 hours of food insecurity. These donated backpacks and food items will help provide children across the state with a nutritious meal over the weekend.
This is an effort near and dear to my heart for many reasons. Growing up, my family often relied on the Salvation Army for our next meal. Many times, my mother would return home from work and tell my siblings and me that she did not have any money for food. Together, we would walk down to the Salvation Army. I have never forgotten their generosity and kindness. Whenever I am able, I give back to this organization.
If you are able to, donating or volunteering at local food banks is a great way to give back to the community. Johnson County’s Salvation Army Red Shield Center is located at 325 Market Plaza in Greenwood. If you are interested in volunteering, or if you or someone you know are in need of support, you can contact them at 317-881-2505.
By working together to help these children, we are taking important steps to reduce child hunger in the Hoosier state. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact me by calling 317-234-3827 or emailing h58@iga.in.gov.
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State Rep. Woody Burton (R-Whiteland) represents House District 58,
which includes a portion of Johnson County.
PICTURED: State Rep. Woody Burton (R-Whiteland) (right) joins the Indiana Division of The Salvation Army to fill donated backpacks with kid-friendly food items Wednesday, March 6, 2019, at the Statehouse. House lawmakers partnered with the Salvation Army and collected and filled over 200 backpacks with more than 5,300 non-perishable food items. The backpacks will be distributed to schools across the state to help kids in need.
