Why November Matters

Every November, communities across the country observe Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Month—a time to recognize our neighbors who are struggling with basic needs and to unite around practical solutions. As many families prepare for Thanksgiving, others in Lane County are quietly stretching meals, choosing between gas and groceries, and figuring out where they’ll sleep. It’s a month that asks us to widen our table and make room for compassion, action, and hope.

The Reality in Coastal Lane County

Hunger and homelessness aren’t abstract issues here on the coast—they live in our school hallways, church basements, and along the backroads of Florence, Mapleton, and rural western Lane County. The numbers are sobering. In Lane County, about 1 in 4 children are food insecure, meaning they don’t consistently know where their next meal will come from. More than 41,000 children in the county face food insecurity—and many struggle most on weekends when school meals aren’t available. In small towns, hunger can be invisible; it looks like kids savoring Friday lunch because they’re not sure what dinner will be, or parents quietly skipping meals so their children can eat.

Youth Homelessness and Family Instability

Hunger and homelessness are intertwined. This year’s Point-In-Time count found that Lane County has over 3,500 unhoused individuals, including 237 unaccompanied youth. Behind those numbers are young people navigating couches, cars, and campgrounds—often because of family violence, instability, or financial crises that spun out faster than anyone could catch them. One persistent myth is that families “move here” for services. The truth is that most youth and families experiencing homelessness in our area originally lived here. They’re our classmates, coworkers, and neighbors who hit hard times and need a community safety net.

The Impact on Kids: Not Just Statistics

Teachers and school staff across Florence, Mapleton, and rural western Lane County consistently tell us they see a difference when students receive FBFK weekend food bags. The changes are small but meaningful, and they add up over time.

• Mood and readiness: Students arrive on Mondays more settled, less irritable, and better able to start the day. Educators report fewer hunger-related complaints and more calm, steady energy through the morning.
• Social connection: With basic needs met, kids are more patient with peers, more willing to collaborate, and more likely to participate in class and group activities. The stress that can make friendships hard begins to lift.
• Learning and focus: Teachers notice improved concentration, greater stamina for lessons, and more consistent homework completion. When students aren’t distracted by hunger, they’re better able to absorb new material and engage with challenging tasks.
• Attendance and routine: Some schools observe fewer Monday absences or tardies among students receiving food support, a sign that reliable weekend meals can help families maintain steadier routines.
• Confidence and dignity: Staff describe a subtle but powerful shift—students carry themselves with more confidence when they know there will be food at home. That sense of security can translate into stronger classroom participation and a willingness to try.

These aren’t abstract outcomes; they’re the day-to-day changes educators see at desks, in hallways, and on playgrounds. A simple bag of nutritious food doesn’t just fill a pantry for the weekend—it supports a child’s emotional well-being, strengthens social connections, and creates the conditions for learning to flourish.

Our approach is simple and local: we raise funds, source nutritious items, rally volunteers to pack, and work with school staff who know their students best. Each bag is a promise—someone cares, and help is right here.

What the Community Can Do This Month

Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Month is a powerful moment to turn empathy into action. Here are meaningful ways you can help:

Donate funds: Financial gifts allow us to buy exactly what’s needed, fill gaps, and purchase in bulk for better value. Every dollar helps us reach more kids with reliable weekend meals.

Volunteer: Join a packing party, help with deliveries to schools, or support outreach and fundraising. Volunteer shifts are designed for individuals, families, and groups.

Host a drive: Encourage your workplace, club, classroom, or faith community to hold a fund drive this month. Tie it to a friendly competition, a gratitude theme, or a service project for teens—Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Month is the perfect anchor for community engagement.

Spread the word: Share our mission with neighbors and friends, post on social media, or invite us to speak to your group. Awareness opens doors.

If you’re unsure where to start, reach out. We’ll help you find a volunteer role that fits your schedule, or make a donation that aligns with your goals. Small acts add up quickly—especially in small towns.