Well, it's been quite awhile since I last had a post. I need to get better at this. It's been slow going getting this program together, trying to do it by myself, therefore, not doing it by myself. I will have my daughter and son help me promote this in school. It's a great way to get them involved in the community. A lot of doors have closed but many more to open, I have not given up. In fact, I have decided to start a book drive. We will be collecting used books from the community to give out with the free lunches. It's an excellent way to get the word out and build interest.

Lots more to do...getting monetary and food donations, getting information on those who would be eligible, getting volunteers to help, etc. The program will start with my son's elementary school, eventually, including each elementary school in the area. That is a lot of kids, 40% of our local schools qualify for free school lunches.

Once the base program is established, I'd like to add another part, gardening. I think it would be awesome to use the garden area at the schools to have the kids learn about gardening so they can do it at home. It's a great learning experience plus it teaches self-sufficiency.

Much to do and little time to get everything ready by summer but I know it can be done. It will be done.

I recently moved from Texas to Tennessee. While I lived in Texas I volunteered in my community for many different organizations. Volunteering for the fire department was my main passion. I really miss it and I'm not able to continue doing it here. So, now I have to find another avenue to channel my passions. One other program I had worked with was feeding children during the summer months. Family is what's most important to me. I did some research and found that 60% of the kids in this area are economically disadvantaged. 1 in 5 kids go to bed hungry. I think this should be where I channel my energy. There don't seem to be any local programs, that I can find. I'm going to the local food pantry to talk with them and see what I can do to get a summer program started. Wish me luck... 4.23.12