It Takes a Village: 5 Ways You Can Help Feed a Child Today

Ending childhood hunger starts with one small act of kindness.

Every day, children in our community show up to school carrying more than just backpacks—they carry the weight of hunger. It’s a quiet struggle that affects how they learn, behave, and feel. At The Kind Mouse, we believe no child should be held back by an empty tummy.

That’s why we launched Before the Bell Rings, an initiative focused on making sure kids receive the nourishment they need before they ever step into the classroom. Because a full belly means a brighter mind—and a better shot at success.

The good news? You can help. And it doesn’t take a big commitment—just a willingness to act.

Here are 5 simple and powerful ways you can help feed a child today:

1. Give Monthly

Even $10 a month can keep a child nourished all school year long. Monthly gifts provide dependable support so we can continue delivering meals consistently. Become a donar today

2. Host a Snack Drive

Get your friends, coworkers, or local school involved in collecting nutritious, easy-to-pack snacks—think applesauce, granola bars, and crackers. It’s a fun way to give back and see your impact firsthand. Get Involved

3. Donate Baby Formula and Toddler Foods

Feeding little ones can be especially tough on struggling families. Donations of formula and age-appropriate items help support our youngest neighbors in a critical stage of development.

4. Share the Mission

Use your voice to spread the word—whether it’s a social media post, a conversation at your child’s school, or bringing awareness to your workplace. Advocacy fuels change. 

5. Take Our Giving Survey

Not sure how to help? Take our quick, 2-minute survey to find the giving option that fits your life and your heart. https://www.thekindmouse.org/survey-before-the-bell

It truly takes a village to fight childhood hunger.And with your help, we can make sure every child starts their day with the strength and confidence that only a nourishing meal can provide.

Let’s be the village that shows up. Let’s feed hope—Before the Bell Rings.

Car Credit Encourages Community to Support Childhood Nutrition and Learning Through The Kind Mouse

At Car Credit, we believe that every child deserves more than just the chance to learn—they deserve the nourishment and support that make learning possible. That’s why we proudly encourage our customers, employees, and neighbors to volunteer with The Kind Mouse, a local nonprofit working to combat childhood hunger across Pinellas County.

When children come to school hungry, their ability to concentrate, participate, and thrive in the classroom is compromised. Hunger holds them back from reaching their full potential—not because they lack motivation, but because they lack meals.

The Kind Mouse understands that food insecurity is more than an empty pantry—it’s an invisible barrier to a brighter future. Through meal bags, pantry support, and compassion-driven programs, they ensure that children can walk into their classrooms focused, confident, and ready to succeed.