Opinion: Child hunger needs to be addressed

To the editor: Child hunger in Massachusetts is an escalating issue that deeply affects developing individuals. As a social work student, I am deeply concerned about the growing issue of child hunger in Massachusetts and am committed to advancing social justice. 

The purpose of this letter is to raise awareness about the urgent need to address food insecurity among children in our state and to urge policymakers to prioritize solutions that ensure every child has access to nutritious meals.

I was saddened to find out that according to recent reports, approximately 1 in 9 children in Massachusetts face food insecurity, meaning they do not have consistent access to enough food for an active and healthy life. 

This problem has worsened due to the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which left many families struggling financially. The consequences of child hunger are severe. Studies show that children who are hungry are more likely to have difficulty concentrating in school, experience developmental delays, and suffer from long-term health issues.

As someone who has volunteered in school settings and at local food pantries, witnessing firsthand the impact of food insecurity on children, I am deeply troubled by this issue. Every child deserves access to nutritious food, and it is heartbreaking to see so many fall through the cracks. Massachusetts, a state known for its wealth and resources, has children going to bed hungry, impacting their physical, mental, and emotional well-being, which is devastating.

Massachusetts can and must do better to ensure no child goes hungry. Beyond programs like Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), we also need to increase funding for school breakfast and lunch programs, making them universally accessible to all students, regardless of income. 

Additionally, we should invest in expanding community-based food programs, such as after-school meal initiatives and summer feeding programs, to ensure children have consistent access to healthy meals throughout the year. I urge residents to contact their state legislators and advocate for policies that prioritize child hunger relief and support the well-being of our youngest citizens.

Thank you, 

Megan Kavaleski 

Middleboro 

Bridgewater State University student