WASHINGTON — For most kids, June is the start of summer break – a time of fun and excitement where they're free to play all day, every day. But for more than 22 million children in communities all across the country, it also may mean the end of access to nutrient-rich milk when in-school free or reduced-price meal programs end.
According to a survey of food banks with Feeding America®, the nation's largest domestic hunger-relief organization, milk is one of the most requested items by food bank clients year-round, and especially during the summer months when more kids rely on local food banks for nutritious meals otherwise provided by in-school programs. But on average, food banks are only able to provide the equivalent of less than one gallon of milk per person per year. That's because while Americans are generous with canned and dry goods, many don't think to donate milk because it's perishable.
That's why, last year, Feeding America partnered with America's dairy farmers and milk companies to create The Great American Milk Drive. The program is designed to deliver highly desired and nutrient-rich gallons of milk to families and children struggling with hunger and often most in need of milk. The Great American Milk Drive makes it easy for Americans to make a difference in their communities because donations stay local. Since it began, The Great American Milk Drive has delivered more than 325,000 gallons of milk to families in need throughout the country.
June is National Dairy Month, and this month – and all summer long – The Great American Milk Drive is on a mission to bring more fresh, nutritious milk to children and families in need in communities from coast to coast.
"Milk is an easy and affordable way to provide much needed nourishment to children who might otherwise miss out on it during the summer months," said Michelle Dudash, registered dietitian and nutritionist. "Many people don't realize that milk provides nine essential nutrients, including eight grams of high-quality protein in each eight-ounce glass and is the top food source of calcium, vitamin D and potassium."
Dairy Farmers and Milk Companies Unite on June 16
In addition to the ongoing donation collection for The Great American Milk Drive, on June 16, dairy farmers and milk companies will come together to ask America to join them in helping kids this summer, doubling donations* made on that day and distributing them to Feeding America's network of 200 food banks. You can join the drive by donating at milklife.com/give and follow the conversation online with #MilkDrive.
"The nutrients in milk are so important for all kids," said Julia Kadison, CEO of the Milk Processor Education Program. "That's why, this summer, we're focused on powering the play of children in local communities across the country by encouraging much-needed, nutrient-rich milk donations. And, on June 16, The Great American Milk Drive will double those donations.*"
Making a Difference in Your Community
It's quick and easy to power the play of children in need in your community with a small donation at milklife.com/give. A gift of as little as $5 will deliver a gallon of milk to a family in need in your community who does not have regular access to it. By entering your zip code, you can ensure that milk is delivered from the farm to a local Feeding America food bank in your very own community.
About Feeding America
Feeding America is a nationwide network of 200 food banks that leads the fight against hunger in the United States. Together, we provide food to more than 46 million people through 60,000 food pantries and meal programs in communities across America. Feeding America also supports programs that improve food security among the people we serve; educates the public about the problem of hunger; and advocates for legislation that protects people from going hungry. Individuals, charities, businesses and government all have a role in ending hunger. Donate. Volunteer. Advocate. Educate. Together we can solve hunger. Visit www.feedingamerica.org, find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.
About MilkPEP
The Milk Processor Education Program (MilkPEP), Washington, D.C., is funded by the nation's milk companies, who are committed to increasing fluid milk consumption. The MilkPEP Board runs the Milk Life campaign, a multi-faceted campaign designed to educate consumers about the powerful nutritional benefits of milk – with 9 essential nutrients, including high-quality protein, in each 8 ounce glass. For more information, go to milklife.com. Campbell Ewald is creative agency for the Milk Life campaign – from America's milk companies.
About National Dairy Council
National Dairy Council® (NDC), the non-profit organization founded by dairy farmers, is committed to nutrition education and research-based communications. NDC provides science-based nutrition information to, and in collaboration with, a variety of stakeholders committed to fostering a healthier nation, including health professionals, educators, school nutrition directors, academia, industry, consumers and media. Established in 1915, NDC comprises a staff of registered dietitians and nutrition research and communications experts across the country. NDC is committed to promoting child health and wellness through programs such as Fuel Up to Play 60. Developed by NDC and the National Football League (NFL), Fuel Up to Play 60 encourages youth to consume nutrient-rich foods and achieve at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day. For more information, visit www.NationalDairyCouncil.org.
*On June 16, The Great American Milk Drive will match all online donations, up to a value of $10,000.
Source: The Milk Processor Education Program (MilkPEP)
