While many of us are encouraged by the early signs of an economic recovery, last night’s “60 Minutes” provided a stark reminder that the recession is far from over for too many families, especially a startling number of children. The rate of childhood poverty in America could soon reach 25%, including areas of Central Florida.
That’s why “60 Minutes” traveled to Seminole County to speak with local families. A hungry child anywhere is unacceptable, but it was all the more poignant and heartbreaking to hear the stories of hungry and homeless children in our own backyard. In fact, I felt a personal connection to the story, as portions were filmed at Casselberry Elementary, where I attended school.
If you’re like me, the first thing you think after watching the story is, “What can I do to help?” As the United Way staff member responsible for our Improving Financial Stability investment area, I am happy to say I know of many fine programs working tirelessly to address these issues in our community. Pathways to Home in Seminole County is helping families like those in the story by providing supportive services such as job skills trainings and budgeting classes. And the program continues to offer support until the family is stabilized with a secure job and home. Many, many other programs are doing similar good work.
There are numerous ways those of you moved to action can contribute to these efforts. Click here to find local volunteer opportunities or click here to give.
Brittany Richards, MPP
Senior Manager
United Way Community Investment
As we have previously discussed, one of the saddest moments in the story was of the young man who dropped out of high school to look for work in hopes of supporting his family.
As we both know, a lack of high school education significantly increases the chance he will remain unemployed and decreases the opportunity of finding and sustaining gainful employement.
As a former PTA president, SAC chairman and mother of CES students I was moved to tears by the “60 Minutes” story. I would like to share that in addition to the other donation / volunteer opportunities mentioned above, Casselberry Elementary accepts donations of food and clothing which is stored in their Casselberry Pantry and distributed to children & families in need. You can also send checks marked “CES Pantry” or grocery store gift certificates. (Casselberry Elementary, 1075 Crystal Bowl, Casselberry, FL 32707.) Unfortunately we can’t help every child, every where but we all can certainly reach out to the children and families in our own neighborhood.