DALLAS – A recent study from Children’s Health reveals a troubling reality: one in four children in Dallas faces food insecurity. This issue is growing, affecting more kids across North Texas than in 2019.
Dallas-Fort Worth now ranks third in the nation for food insecurity, trailing only New York City and Los Angeles, according to Feeding America. Dr. Timothy Bray from the Institute for Urban Policy Research at UT Dallas highlights a troubling truth: many families affected have jobs but still struggle to feed their kids.
Food insecurity also ties closely to housing instability. The number of children without stable homes in Dallas County skyrocketed from 7,200 to 9,400 in just a few years, a 30% increase.
Hunger can lead to serious health issues. Dr. Bray explains that prolonged poverty can create what he calls “toxic stress.” This type of stress can affect how children manage their emotions, leading to frustration and anger.
Many families aren’t aware of the resources available to them. Dr. Bray notes that as inflation rises, those who never needed help before might not realize they qualify for food assistance. “It’s hard for many to say they need help,” he adds. Importantly, kids need balanced diets to grow healthy, not just calories.
In response to the crisis, local heroes are stepping in. The Mark Cuban Heroes Basketball Center recently distributed 800 food boxes in Dallas. Dirk Nowitzki, a former NBA star, joined the effort, passing out grocery gift cards. “It’s emotional,” he said, recalling meeting a mother who was living in her car. For Nowitzki, helping out with his kids has become a family tradition, a way to instill values of compassion and community.
Statistics reveal the depth of this crisis. Recent surveys show that food insecurity impacts nearly 39 million Americans, many of whom are children. As Dr. Bray notes, addressing child hunger takes a community effort. With the combined efforts of local leaders and everyday people, there is hope for change.
For more information on child hunger and resources available, you can visit [Feeding America](https://www.feedingamerica.org/).
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