Introduction: Are you a passionate young changemaker eager to make a difference? The 2024 Sodexo Stop Hunger Foundation Youth Grants present an incredible opportunity for youth aged 5 to 25 to lead impactful projects combating childhood hunger in America. In collaboration with the Sodexo Stop Hunger Foundation, Youth Service America (YSA) is thrilled to invite applications for grants of either $250 or $500, supporting projects ranging from awareness campaigns to direct service initiatives.
The Urgency of Addressing Childhood Hunger: With the alarming statistic that 1 in 5 children (20%) in the United States is facing hunger, it is evident that immediate action is required. This figure marks a significant increase from approximately 12% in 2022. The reasons behind childhood hunger are diverse, including factors such as meal skipping, families residing in food deserts, rising food costs, and the challenging choices parents must make between purchasing food and paying bills. Regardless of the causes, the reality remains stark: 13 million children are experiencing hunger in the wealthiest country globally.
Grant Details and Requirements: This year, applicants can apply for either a $250 or $500 grant, contingent on the number of youth volunteers involved in the project. Those applying for the $250 grant must engage a minimum of 25 youth volunteers, while the $500 grant requires the involvement of 50 youth volunteers.
Project Criteria:
- Proposed projects must be youth-led and dedicated to addressing childhood hunger.
- Projects should align with the Sodexo Servathon (April 1-May 31, 2024), with an emphasis on activities during Global Youth Service Day (April 26-28, 2024).
- Suitable project locations include schools, colleges/universities, afterschool programs, youth organizations, nonprofits, or faith-based organizations.
- Encouragement to engage youth who are typically not asked to serve, such as those with disabilities, struggling in school, or from low-income communities.
- Applicants must reside in the United States, and project activities should benefit children and families in the country.
Long-Term Impact and Sustainability: Projects with a sustainability component and those introducing long-term solutions to ending hunger are particularly encouraged. The initiative seeks ideas that foster community collaboration, involving young people, families, Sodexo employees, and local leaders.
Resources and Support: To assist applicants, a curated list of hunger resources and project ideas from partners like No Kid Hungry, Feeding America, the Alliance to End Hunger, and Hunger Free America is available. Also, an application walkthrough and planning webinar is scheduled for Wednesday, December 6, 2023, with registration required.
Application Deadline: All applications must be submitted by 11:59 pm local time on Sunday, January 21, 2024.
Get Involved: If you have questions or need assistance with your application, refer to the Frequently Asked Questions section. For further inquiries, contact Katie Reusch, the Sodexo Stop Hunger Foundation youth grant administrator, at Katie@YSA.org.
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