San Marcos is taking big steps to help its most vulnerable residents with over $1 million from federal Community Development Block Grants. This funding, provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, aims to meet various community needs.
A key part of this funding, $14,000, will support the “Food for Kids Backpack” program run by the San Diego Food Bank. This initiative will ensure that 50 students in the San Marcos Unified School District have food over the weekends. Many of these kids face food insecurity and often return to school on Monday feeling hungry and unable to focus.
Michael Minjares, the grants management director at the Food Bank, emphasized the importance of this program. He noted that when students go home on Fridays, they might not have enough to eat. Ensuring these kids have meals over the weekend can help them return to school ready to learn and thrive.
Deputy Mayor Mike Sannella expressed his optimism about the grant, stating it allows the city to provide more support to its community. Beyond tackling childhood hunger, the funds will help improve a local senior center’s HVAC system and contribute to the development of Richmar Park.
Additionally, any leftover money is planned to address fair housing initiatives and senior transportation services. Minjares believes this investment will be a game-changer for many at-risk children. “We’re excited about what this means for kids who rely on free or reduced-price meals, who may return to empty pantries over the weekend,” he said.
This effort aligns with broader trends in addressing food security, reflecting a growing recognition of the issue’s impact on education and community well-being. According to a recent study by Feeding America, over 42 million people in the U.S. face food insecurity. Programs like these highlight local solutions to a national crisis.
In short, San Marcos is working to make a real difference for many families, paving the way for a healthier, more supportive community.
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Childhood hunger,Community Development Block Grant,Food for kids backpack,HUD grant,Michael Minjares,Mike Sannella,Richmar Park,San Diego Food Bank,San Marcos,fair housing
