KERN COUNTY, Calif. — United Way of Kern County has partnered with No Kid Hungry to provide 500 grocery gift cards to children and families valued at $250 each. Families were also provided with other items such as stuffed animals, brand new books, and face masks.

“We have many children and families that go to bed hungry every night, and this situation has continued to worsen since the pandemic,” says Rachel Hoetker, education manager and emergency food and shelter administrator at United Way of Kern County. “They don’t have access to affordable or nutritious food especially while they are out of school, but with the help of No Kid Hungry and our partners, we were able to provide grocery gift cards to alleviate hunger amongst some of our most vulnerable families. No child or individual should ever have to go to bed hungry.”

With many families having lost jobs or wages in recent months, more kids than ever rely on the meals they get at school. Winter break brings a time of uncertainty when a family will receive their next meal. This funding allows for families in Kern County to take a breath and know they have groceries in their fridge and pantries.

Check here to learn more about the services United Way of Kern County provides to the community.