In the hustle of high school life—the tests, sports, and social events—it is easy to overlook the growing crisis of food insecurity. While many students have to worry about grades and college applications, others face a more immediate concern—when their next meal is.

According to Feeding America, food insecurity is defined as “when people can’t access the food they need to live their fullest lives“ and fulfill their basic needs. Food insecurity is the biggest problem in the United States, as 47 million people and 14 million children experience it annually (Feeding America). There are several causes of food insecurity, as it can happen to anyone. Some reasons are Income-related factors, the high cost of living, community factors, health-related factors, and systemic barriers to opportunity. For students, this means arriving to class on an empty stomach, struggling to concentrate, and missing out on nutrients important during their major physical and mental development. Experts say without those nutrients, it can undermine the readiness for school and is a predictor of academic failure in the future (Feed the Children). Students struggling with food insecurity are at a social disadvantage and are more likely to drop out and have poor academic performance (NIH). That is why school and community help is important.

Herron has a few ways in which they combat food insecurity. They incorporate the free and reduced-price lunch program which allows underprivileged students to get lunch for free or for a less expensive price. This allows them to not have to go hungry at school. Herron also collects canned food during times like Thanksgiving to donate to those who need it. Herron has also had food banks before where they give out food to students and families who need it. These programs have helpful effects on students experiencing food insecurity.

No student should have to choose between focusing on school and their next meal. Food insecurity is a silent struggle among many students. This battle needs to be addressed and school and communities need to do more to help.