In the Lowcountry, one in five children does not know where his or her next meal will come from.

Chronic food insecurity presents many adverse consequences for children, including impaired cognitive function, compromised ability to resist illness and higher levels of aggression, hyperactivity and anxiety.

Research shows that children with regular access to nutritious food have higher grades and test scores, as well as better attendance and improved behavior in school. At the LCFB, we work to end childhood hunger in coastal South Carolina through a range of innovative programs:

BackPack Buddies addresses weekend and school vacation hunger, when other resources are not available. This program provides children nutritious and easy-to-prepare food that is discreetly placed in their backpack.

School Market provides students and families the opportunity to select food items to take home. These permanent pantries are located in schools and promote a more dignified service experience for individuals

School Pantry provides students and families with a 20 pound box of staple food items to help stretch their monthly budget.

Fresh for Kids markets provides students with fresh fruits and vegetables to be taken home and shared with their families.

Summer Meals meets the needs of food insecure children in the summer and provides them with nutritious meals and snacks when they do not have access to free or reduced price school meals.