SSM Health has donated $20,000 to the Fondy Food Pantry to support its Food for Thought program, which helps to reduce childhood hunger by providing nutritious weekend food bags and snacks to up to 1,000 children on a weekly basis.

This program supports students in Fond du Lac, Eden, Campbellsport, and Ripon school districts, ensuring that children who rely on school meals during the week do not go hungry over the weekends.

“Each food bag is carefully curated to align with USDA MyPlate guidelines, offering balanced portions of fruits, vegetables, protein, and dairy,” according to Ellen Simon, Fondy Food Pantry executive director. “Well-nourished students are better able to focus, engage, and perform in school, and reducing hunger improves attendance rates, classroom behavior, and academic achievement.”

In addition to the weekly food bags, Food for Thought provides weekly snacks to middle and high schools, ensuring students have access to nourishment throughout the school day. Homeless elementary-aged children also receive daily snacks making sure the most vulnerable youth receive the support they need when it matters most.

In every single county across the country, families are feeling the effects of food insecurity. According to Feeding America, 49 million people in the United States relied on food banks and other programs to help put food on the table in 2022.

“Nutrition is the cornerstone of good health and development, particularly in children,” according to Bill Boyd, SSM Health St. Agnes Hospital vice president of operations. “It’s not just about preventing illness; it’s about fostering growth, learning, and a vibrant, energetic childhood. Understanding the importance of nutrition for children is crucial for parents, educators, and communities alike.”

The donation was presented to Simon by Bill Boyd, as well as Tami Schattschneider, SSM Health St. Agnes Hospital VP Patient Care Services/CNO.

Ellen Simon (center), Fondy Food Pantry executive director, accepts a $20,000 donation from SSM Health, including Bill Boyd, SSM Health St. Agnes Hospital vice president of operations, and Tami Schattschneider, SSM Health St. Agnes Hospital VP Patient Care Services/CNO.