Child Nutrition Member Composes Heartfelt Poem for Her Less Fortunate Students

Brenda Purdin is a member of the child nutrition team at Pattison Elementary at Milford Schools (OH). She recently wrote this poem entitled “Hungry” for the less fortunate students that she and her team members serve every day. She shared it with her colleagues, and now would like to share it with child nutrition professionals across the country, in the hopes that they all realize how important their jobs are, and how they affect their students’ lives more than they realize.

“Hungry”

Most times there’s no breakfast, no dinner, it’s true;
That’s why, when I’m hungry 
I’m counting on you.

“We are not a charity case”
“To accept hand outs
Would be a disgrace,”
My father has said this 
Time after time;
But, my stomach is growling 
While I stand in your line.

I smell the food 
As we walk down the hall,
While others discuss 
Their trips to the mall;
I fight back the tears,
Anticipate taste;
My tray will be full, 
Without any waste.

I am so grateful 
For the food that you serve;
The smells, and the tastes
That I may not deserve.

Thank you, Brenda, for allowing us to share your poem with other child nutrition professionals, and for your hard work and dedication to serve students! You are a shining star in the Meals Plus Family.