Paciano Salvador, father of Isis and Ileen (not pictured) picks up a Toddler Bag, filled with nutrient-rich food aimed for kids’ growing minds and bodies, at a local food bank. “It helps a lot. Especially right now in this economy,” he said.

With job losses and foreclosures continuing to mount and unemployment benefits in jeopardy, thousands of once-stable people are turning to local food banks to help make ends meet.

Low-income parents of young children often face an even greater challenge—making sure that their kids have access to healthy, nutrient-dense foods, as well as supplies like diapers and infant formula, during this period of economic uncertainty. Many are forced to make unfathomable choices every month: Food on the table or money for rent? Pay the utilities or buy gas to get to work?

Sadly, healthy food is often the first thing to go. Studies show that diets lacking in vitamins and protein put children at greater risk for cognitive impairments and emotional and behavioral problems later in life.

Solid Ground’s Food Security for Children program helps ease the burden a bit for these parents by supplying Seattle-area food banks with nutritious, kid-friendly foods, like tuna, peanut butter, oatmeal, fruits and vegetables, and essential infant supplies, including formula and diapers.

You can help feed the most vulnerable in our community by participating in the Strike Out Hunger Bowl-a-thon on March 27 at West Seattle Bowl. Register early (by March 5) and be eligible for prizes. Registration deadline is March 19. Details are on our website.

Please come join us for this fun-filled and meaningful way to get involved in feeding hungry people!