Sesame Street Helping Kids Facing Food Insecurity
By: Amy Jeanroy
Published: October 5, 2011

There is not a person under the age of 40 in America, who doesn't recognize them on sight. Hum a few bars of song and quite possibly, the next person in line would be able to join in. I am talking about the iconic Sesame Street.
Ever since its inception 40 years ago, this brightly colored show has been entertaining kids, and talking about topics that may not be comfortable, but are affecting young children's lives. Now, Sesame Street has unveiled their latest character: Lily. 
Lily will be tackling the real issue of food insecurity in America. She talks about going to the food pantry and getting free breakfast and lunches at her school. She then shares that her family doesn't always know where their next meal is coming from. These are real and sobering facts 17 million children face in America right now. In Sesame Street style, Lily will be sharing the message that anyone could be going through struggle of hunger, and that her family benefits from the support of her community.
While we adults often talk to each other about food costs and household budgets, it can be very difficult to talk to kids about food. Sesame Street has come up with a way to talk about food insecurity and hunger, in a way that feels safe and is engaging to young children.