“The Biggest Challenge in My Lift is Feeding My Kids”

Summer is often filled with fun activities for children to help keep them busy while they’re out of school. But for some families, keeping children occupied and with stomachs full of plenty of nutritious food can be difficult. That’s why the Cleveland Metroparks partners with the Greater Cleveland Food Bank for Lunch and Learn sites.

Justine, a mom of two who attends the Metroparks Lunch and Learn sites with her kids, knows they’re a great opportunity for both nutritious food and a fun, educational activity. “The food is not what we have every single day, and we also get to enjoy some of the awesome education that is provided here as well … It’s a great combo, and we’re very grateful for it.”

She also appreciates that the meals provided are a “rainbow” of food groups, ensuring that each child is receiving a well-balanced meal.

Coming to the Metroparks Lunch and Learn gives Justine some relief. She knows her kids are getting the nutrients they need to thrive, especially while groceries are still so expensive. The combination of high grocery prices and having picky eaters makes shopping for groceries that more difficult.

That’s why she’s grateful the Food Bank can provide at least one meal she knows her kids will enjoy. “It does impact our lives, not having to do one meal. One meal is wonderful. We’ll take it. We’ll take whatever we can get. The biggest challenge in my life is feeding my kids,” she says.

Because of donors like you, Justine can access fun summer programs for her children and know the food they are getting is nutritious. Thank you!

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