In 2012, Gina Wilkins, was compelled into action after becoming aware of the number of children in Pinellas County suffering from chronic hunger and food insecurity. Her decision to take action became The Kind Mouse. In the 10 years since, the nonprofit has helped fill more than 750,000 tummies. The Kind Mouse will continue its mission to feed hungry kids, one tummy at a time, but they can use our help.
Food Insecurity in Pinellas County
The number of chronically hungry kids in Pinellas County has risen dramatically in the last decade. As of 2020, nearly 16% of local children struggle with food insecurity, the lack of access to enough food for an active, healthy lifestyle. The myriad of adverse social and health outcomes can be especially devastating for children. Hungry kids struggle to concentrate, learn, and make lasting social connections. Children who don’t know where their next meals are coming from cannot build the strong foundations necessary to rise and succeed. Making sure that fewer kids go hungry is an achievable goal with the help of organizations like The Kind Mouse.
Why Be a Kind Mouse?
Studies repeatedly show that food insecurity can be reduced with multilevel interventions that include participation in food-assistance programs like The Kind Mouse. To fulfill its mission “to assist … chronically hungry children,” the organization partners with other community groups. In 2019 alone, they distributed 123,000 pounds of food and served over 1 million meals through various avenues. Every week, the Mouse Nibbles program delivers nonperishable foods in unidentifiable bags to hungry kids at Pinellas County schools so that they and their families have nourishment for weekends and holidays.
Kids Feeding Kids
In addition to helping kids and families in need, the organization seeks “to develop the next generation of volunteers to carry on the mission of The Kind Mouse.” They raise awareness about childhood hunger while also fostering good citizenship with programs that demonstrate the importance of nonprofit community service. The various efforts under the “Kids Feeding Kids” umbrella serve a vital role in this effort. As Mice In Training and Mice Interns, young volunteers ages 5 to 18 immerse themselves in the mission of the organization, make a meaningful difference in the lives of hungry children, and learn valuable skills as leaders.
The Kind Mouse Loves its Helpers: Big and Small!
The Kind Mouse also loves its grown-up helpers. Volunteers of all ages can lend a hand by organizing food drives or events, working in the pantry or office, sponsoring a program, and/or raising awareness. As founder Wilkins notes, The Kind Mouse prides itself on being “lean and mighty,” but the organization still needs to take care of its staff and operations. During these times of rising needs and diminishing means, fiscal gifts are more important than ever. Donations to the non-profit 501(c)(3) organization are tax deductible. As you think about end-ofthe- year contributions, please consider The Kind Mouse.
Contact Information
For information, visit www.thekindmouse.org or phone (727) 575- 7834 or send email to [email protected]
