While kids can’t wait for summer to begin, the thought of an extended break is difficult for some parents. Millions of families in the US suffer from food insecurity. They feel some relief during the school year when their children receive their lunch, and sometimes breakfast, for free as part of government-subsidized school food programs. Those meals don’t extend into the summertime for all families, which can create a situation where children are hungry. A 7-Eleven in Texas saw a need in its community and decided to make a difference.
A Redditor shared a post in the Made Me Smile sub of a heartwarming gesture for kids in need.
The 7-Eleven in Allen, Texas, taped a handwritten note to its door, offering free food to needy schoolchildren.
“We understand that schools are closed and that some families rely on school lunches!! So from Monday–Friday (11 am–12 pm), kids 18 and younger can have a slice of pizza, a banana with a Big Gulp ON US! 7 Eleven 32870 (McDermott and Watters) Allen,” the sign reads.
The gesture struck a chord with Reddit users who loved seeing this 7-Eleven giving back to the community.
“Free food for kids during school closures is the right kind of energy,” someone wrote.
Another person noted those who show the most generosity are often people who have experienced similar struggles in their lives.
“It’s so interesting, and sweet to me, how not-wealthy people are by far the most generous with what little we have,” a Redditor commented. “I think it speaks to the concept of more money leading to more greed/it’s easier to pass through the eye of the needle than for a wealthy person to get into heaven.”
Someone else agreed: “It is not a mystery. People who have struggled, who have experienced hardship, adversity or loss are more compassionate and empathetic towards the suffering of others because of their familiarity with it.”
Thankfully there are still plenty of good people looking out for each other. Let’s hope that kindness continues to spread.
