Back to School: How Food Fuels Growing Minds

By Isabel Berge

Kids across Orange County are getting ready to head back to school, eager for a fresh year of learning and growth.
But as kids dive into math problems, reading assignments, and science experiments, some are missing what they need most: nutritious food.

The Impact of Hunger on Academic Performance

When kids come to school hungry, it affects a lot more than their mood. Hunger limits their ability to concentrate, process information, and participate in class. It can cause fatigue, irritability, and can even lead to behavioral problems. 

According to the Journal of School Health, prolonged food insecurity can lower academic performance, leading to lower math scores, more frequent absences, and reduced classroom engagement. Simply put, no child can reach their full potential on an empty stomach. 

The good news? Nutritious food can change that story. And together, we can make sure every child has what they need to succeed. 

Food is Brain Fuel

The food TABLE delivers to local kids offers a variety of nutrients that help provide the building blocks for a strong mind and body, including:

• Carbohydrates from whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, supply kids with steady energy throughout the school day.

• Proteins from meats, beans, and eggs build brain cells and support alertness and focus.

• Healthy fats from nuts, seeds, and avocados, vital for brain development.

• Vitamins and minerals, such as iron, zinc, and vitamin B boost memory, mood, and learning skills.

These nutrients work together to give kids the best chance to thrive in and out of the classroom. To explore the fresh produce we provide and how it supports growing minds, check out TABLE’s produce list.

How You Can Help

This school year, you can help make sure kids in Orange County have the food they need to learn and grow. One way to help is by donating through TABLE’s Amazon Wishlist or dropping off food donations at TABLE’s office year-round or through the Back-to-School Food Drive. These donations will go directly to the 1,154 children TABLE serves each week and will help local kids start the school year strong. 

Another powerful way to support TABLE is by volunteering. TABLE’s volunteers are the heart of what we do. They help sort donations, pack bags, take inventory, and deliver food directly to children. Whether you can give an hour a week or help during a busy season (like now!). Your time makes a tangible difference in the lives of the local kids we serve.  

When you shop from our Wishlist, drop off donations, or volunteer your time, you’re doing more than providing food—you’re fueling future generations. 

More than a Meal

Nutritious food doesn’t just fuel learning. It builds confidence, helps kids feel capable, and gives them the energy to be active and engaged. At TABLE, we see it every week in the smiles, thank-yous, and excited waves from the kids we serve. 

As the new school year begins, we’re cheering on every student, every family, every teacher, and every community partner who makes this work possible. 

Let’s make sure every student starts the year with a full belly, a focused mind, and the confidence to succeed. 

Support TABLE’s work this school year by contributing to the Back-to-School food drive, shopping the Amazon Wishlist, Donating to the office, or Volunteering your time to make a difference.