In South Dakota, 1 in 6 children live in food insecure homes.  The effects of child hunger are numerous and can last a lifetime.  

Physical issues associated with hunger include:

  • Headaches
  • Stomachaches
  • Increased susceptibility to illness
  • Lack of concentration in school
  • Missed academic potential
  • Increased depression, feelings of isolation, social anxiety

As children become teens, the effects of food insecurity and hunger increase.  In desperate cases, teens can turn to theft, drug-dealing, and even prostitution to provide food for themselves and for their families.

Hunger robs children of a healthy, fulfilling childhood.  Instead of learning in school, making friends, and growing into healthy adults, children dealing with hunger are forced to grow up too quickly.

Feeding South Dakota fights every day to end child hunger in our state. You can help. Fill out the form below.