As of 2021 in Wake County, 14% of children under 18 were food insecure. Sufficient nutrition is necessary for a child's success, as hunger can impact a child's development well into adulthood.
Youth Hunger VISTA
The Youth Food Security VISTA focuses on bringing the youth of Wake County together to enact change through the Capital Area Food Network’s Youth Led Circle. This group meets once a month to discuss issues related to food systems, as well as plan the Youth Food Security Summit. The Summit is a daylong event for the youth of Wake County full of workshops, guest speakers and service projects – all planned and put on by the Youth Circle. Previous topics include food security, food justice, racial equity and intersectionality.
Resources & Media
Teen Recipe Book
The recipes in this book were put together by both the members of the Youth Circle as well as nutritionists from Poe Health Center. Not only does it provide healthy, easy and delicious recipes that anyone can make, but it also provides helpful resources such as food pantry locations, insights on how to plan a menu, grocery shopping tips, SNAP tips, seasonal produce guides and so much more.
2023 Youth Food Security Summit
The 2023 Youth Food Security Summit is to take place on Friday, June 23, 2023, from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. at Dix Park in Raleigh. The event is open to 8th–12th graders in the area who want to learn more about food security and how to get involved. Adult volunteers are also needed.
Sign up to attend or volunteer here.