Denise Newburn serves as an in-house school detention teacher at Little Axe Elementary School. She praised Food 4 Kids for helping chronically hungry children.

“We have about 65 bags that go out a week and that serves about 45 families because most families have multiple children,” Newburn said.

In 2006, about 44 bags of food were handed out to Little Axe students, she said. Children are able to take extra packages of food home to feed younger siblings.

Newburn said she’s noticed that students who receive food gifts have increased social skills and study better.

“I see increased confidence,” she said.

Amber Bui, a counselor at Eisenhower Elementary, said 25 students are enrolled in the food program. She expects the number to increase to 40 by the end of the school year.

“I’ve had lots of parents just tell me how grateful they are,” Bui said. “The kids are so excited.”

The counselor said each Wednesday, students ask her about the food that will be included in the packages.

Bui said she views the program as a way to support families who need help.

“The school is able to comfort the parent and kids over the weekend,” she said. “The kids know they’re loved and cared for not only at home but school.”

Bui said she’s witnessed an improvement in behavior and grades for those students who are given additional food.

“The more you can give some of these kids, the better it makes them feel and the better they are in school,” she said.

Meghan McCormick

366-3539

mmccormick@normantranscript.com