BLOG

In Maricopa County middle school classrooms, it started as a regular day… That is, until an Arizona Cardinals quarterback appeared on their computer screen.

Thanks to our donor support, we are able to provide 520 WeekEnd Hunger Backpacks every Friday during the school year. This year, the backpacks include pantry staples like rice, pasta, and items for family meals to help feed an entire family for a weekend.

As technology continues to surround us in our day to day lives, having the right computer skills is almost essential. October is Computer Learning Month! In preparation, here are several ways for you to use computers to advance your own knowledge or support children in their education locally.

Hunger is a big problem in Maricopa County. When a person is hungry, they lose health, focus, and energy. With 87,000 households in the Valley not knowing where their next meal is coming from, finding a way to participate in Hunger Action Month is critical to breaking the cycle of poverty.

Students missing only a day or two of classes every few weeks are already starting to fall behind in school. Missing just 2 days each month adds up to missing 10% of the entire school year.

The work education providers are doing to ensure children enter school ready to succeed is extremely important. That’s why Valley of the Sun United Way’s Quality First program is here to help!

Poverty greatly impacts students on many levels. Coming to school hungry, with holes in their shoes and lack of a jacket can set the tone for the day. Sitting in class with a decaying tooth or unaddressed illness impacts a student’s ability to fully engage in their learning.
