HUGS Across the County is kicking off its sixth annual No Hungry Holidays program. This community volunteer effort provides roughly 10 days of breakfast and lunch items to 1,200-plus St. Johns County kids over the long winter break.
This annual program helps prevent food insecurity during a time when children will not have access to the free and reduced school-based meals. Children are referred by their school counselors from nearly every school in St. Johns County, including Ponte Vedra, Julington Creek, St. Augustine, Hastings, Nocatee and World Golf Village.
Here are some ways community members can help with the effort:
■ Sponsor a No Hungry Holidays food bag for a $20 donation at www.stjohnshugs.org/give. Donations will help purchase cereal, crackers, peanut butter, fruit cups, granola bars and hearty nonperishable lunch items.
■ Organize a food drive and packing event among neighbors, book groups, sports teams, church groups or any other group. Email info@stjohnshugs.org for a list of items.
■ Sponsor an entire school (7-50 bags) through your office, neighborhood orc church! Email info@stjohnshugs.org for a list of schools and number of students needing bags.
The nonprofit provides clothing, shoes, toiletries, school supplies and food to St. Johns County kids who are referred by school counselors and social workers.
