A Full Belly Helps Little Minds Grow: Donation Supports Head Start Children and Families with Nutritious Food
Head Start food distributions made possible by Vera Thompson
LOCATION – On a recent afternoon at a local Head Start center, the sounds of learning were joined by something just as important: the rustle of paper bags, the clink of shelf-stable food boxes, and the excitement of children helping carry food home to their families. Thanks to a generous $50,000 donation supporting food purchases for Head Start students and their households, families are receiving nutritious, kid-friendly meals at a time when they are needed most.
The gift has already helped provide take-home meals 868 times across 217 Head Start children and their families in Hocking, Athens, and Perry Counties. The effort included 3 weekend meal packs for students and one larger shelf-stable food boxes filled with items that are both nourishing and familiar—foods children recognize, enjoy, and feel proud to share at home. Even more opportunities for food are coming in the weeks ahead
“I have a seemingly always hungry boy who LOVES his snacks. They have provided extra items for him to grab on the go and enjoy during the weekends,” a Head Start parent shared.
Early childhood educators know that learning does not stop when the school day ends—and neither does hunger. Consistent access to nutritious food plays a critical role in early brain development, focus, emotional regulation, and overall well-being. By helping families bridge gaps outside the classroom, this donation reinforces the connection between food security and educational success.
“This support allows children to come to school ready to learn and gives families peace of mind heading into the weekend,” said Chris DeLamatre, Director of Child Development. “When children have access to healthy food at home, it strengthens everything we work toward in the classroom.”
For many families, this gift arrived at a pivotal moment. November’s SNAP benefit delays created unexpected strain and uncertainty for households already balancing rising costs and busy schedules. The additional food support helps ease that pressure—while honoring the hard work parents and caregivers are already doing every day.
“The food boxes definitely helped our household. Thank you!” Shared Head Start parent Bryna.
“Amora is a snack queen,” Head Start parent Marissa continued, “She and her little sister enjoyed and still are enjoying the box of goodies. The donor has made two little girls VERY happy and two FULL bellies!”
This food was packed and distributed with care by Head Start center coordinators and staff who know their families best.
Another parent shared how the experience gave her child a new sense of pride:
“He’s been excited to feel like he’s brought something to our table. ‘Mom, are you going to make the Mac and Cheese I brought home from school tonight? I brought that myself!’ It’s given him a sense of independence and confidence that he’s so excited to share with his family,” said Head Start parent Kayla about her child.
As distributions continue, the impact of this donation will be felt not just in meals served, but in classrooms where children can focus, homes where weekends feel a little more secure, and families who know they are supported.
“We are so grateful to Vera Thompson and family for making this thoughtful and truly impactful gift,” DeLamatre shared. “Teachers have students asking, ‘Do we get to take food home again today?’ It has made a real impact for some of our most vulnerable little community members.”
To learn more about Head Start services or how to support food access for children and families, visit hapcap.org.
