Dear _____________:

Educating the next generation of young people is critical to the success of our nation, our state and our local community. But before children can excel in school, something else must come first: food. Well-nourished children are ready to learn every day. They have the energy to participate in class, focus on their work and achieve academic success. But too many children in _____________ come to school hungry. More than 21 percent of children in Illinois—1 in 5 children—is food insecure, meaning they’re unsure of when or where they will receive their next meal. The Great Recession has left many families without the resources to provide food for their families.

We have an opportunity to ensure that no child begins the school day hungry. All schools in the state can provide breakfast, whether in the cafeteria, classroom or even in hallways. Schools can offer breakfast with minimal costs: meals are reimbursed by the federal government, and the Rise and Shine Illinois campaign provides grants to schools to implement breakfast. I urge____________ to make breakfast available for all students. Studies show that students who regularly eat school breakfast score 17 percent higher on standardized tests. After all, we grew up hearing “Breakfast is the most important meal of the day.” Our future generations are at risk unless we equip them with the nutrients they need to thrive in school.

Sincerely,