When I heard about Feeding Empty Little Tummies and how they send food home on the weekends to homeless children in Manatee County, I was eager to volunteer. The board members and volunteers I work with are devoted, selfless people with the biggest hearts. Every Friday, rain or shine, the volunteers of F.E.L.T arrive with a smile on their faces and determination in their hearts, ready to pack backpacks.

Just wanted to thank you so much for all the effort you put in to making our kids smile with these bags of food. I honestly know how these bags help our kids. Two years ago you put a smile on my daughter’s face and on mine when we arrived from Puerto Rico and living in a truck. That bag might seem small but made a big difference for us.

In my six years of teaching, I have seen students who have trouble focusing in class because their stomachs hurt from lack of food. I have seen students who try to sneak milk in their backpacks to give to their baby brother or sister. These students are not able to grow academically because while at school they are focusing on how their family is going to eat later that night. Learning is hard enough without any other distractions. F.E.L.T. is a wonderful organization because they provide more than just food for the weekends; they provide security, comfort, and peace of mind to a family each and every week.

Thank you Jessica and everyone at Feeding Empty Little Tummies for all the amazing work you all have done this school year. Especially your astounding response during these challenging times with Covid-19. Our Blackburn community is in awe of all your generosity. Please enjoy a most deserved rest time. We will hopefully see you again next school year. Be safe and stay well!

Kim Bailey‘s dedication to F.E.L.T. and ensuring no child gets left behind is a testament to her grass roots efforts to educate our community. Feeding Empty Little Tummies is a vital resource in providing at risk children much needed nutrition to grow, learn and thrive. Our organization has been supporting the mission and vision of F.E.L.T. since 2010 and wish continued success.