Feeding Families, Fueling Futures: Why Childhood Hunger Matters

In the Maine Highlands, children are growing up surrounded by beauty, resilience, and community. But far too many are growing up without consistent access to the food they need to thrive.

At Heart of Maine Resource Center, nearly 1 in 5 people we serve is under 18. These are kids in our local schools, on our ballfields, and in our neighborhoods. And when they don’t have enough to eat, it affects every area of their lives.

🧠 Hunger Affects Learning

When children go to school hungry, they can’t concentrate, retain information, or keep up with their peers. Research shows that food insecurity is linked to lower test scores, increased behavior issues, and chronic absenteeism.

Many families rely on free or reduced-price school meals—but that doesn’t cover evenings, weekends, or summer. And for kids in rural communities like Dexter, even getting to a grocery store can be a challenge.

🧒 Hunger Affects Health

Food insecurity is tied to both malnutrition and obesity. Families with limited resources may rely on low-cost, low-nutrition foods just to get by. That means kids often miss out on fresh fruits, vegetables, and proteins that support their growth and development.

Inconsistent access to food can also affect mental health, leading to anxiety, stress, and feelings of isolation.

💡 How We’re Responding

At HMRC, we’re committed to supporting children by supporting the whole household. Our monthly food distributions provide nutritious food to over 320 neighbors a month across the region—including hundreds of children each year.

As we prepare to open our Client Choice Food Center, we’re also working toward systems that offer more choice and support. That includes adding kid-friendly options, sourcing nutritious ingredients, and helping families connect to other local programs that promote health and stability.

🧡 You Can Help

When you support HMRC, you’re helping fill more than a plate—you’re helping fuel a future. Let’s ensure that every child in our community has the nourishment they need to learn, grow, and thrive.

👉 Become a Monthly Donor: https://givebutter.com/X9opO9

👉 Volunteer with us!

Together, we can make childhood hunger a thing of the past.