Our kids deserve full plates and bright futures

Author: Maribel Salmon, Senior Associate, Family Engagement, Save the Children Action Network

As a mom and as someone who’s worked with children and families in Doña Ana County for over a decade, I know what it looks like when kids are hungry, and I know what it feels like when parents are doing everything they can to keep that from happening. 

When I was teaching, I would notice that some of my students had very little energy, sometimes even falling asleep in class. Others had a hard time controlling their emotions when they were hungry. I would worry more about children with long term effects of poor nutrition; it impacts their development. You can’t focus on spelling or math when your stomach is growling; hunger affects health, behavior, and confidence too. 

As a mother, I’ve lived that same challenge. There were moments when I quietly skipped a meal so my kids could have what they needed. No parent should have to make that choice. But too many families here in southern New Mexico still do. 

That’s why I’m so thankful that our state leaders took action this month to protect families from federal cuts to food assistance programs. Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham and the New Mexico Legislature approved an emergency relief package that includes more than $25 million for SNAP benefits, food banks and school-based food programs. That means more kids will get the nutrition they need to grow and learn, and parents can breathe a little easier. 

This is a big step in the right direction, and I’m grateful to the governor and legislators who prioritized children and families. But as someone who works with parents every day, I also know that families are still struggling. Food prices are high. Federal funding remains uncertain. And even with this emergency funding, too many families in our community are one unexpected bill away from not knowing how they’ll fill the pantry. 

That’s why this work can’t stop here. 

As a family engagement specialist, I get to work directly with parents and caregivers — the people who know their kids best – and help them build the confidence and skills to advocate for their children’s needs. I’ve seen the power of parents finding their voices.

When families come together to speak up – at city council meetings, in Santa Fe or even in conversations with neighbors – real change happens. A lot of positive change has happened in recent years thanks to tireless efforts by political, business and community leaders. Let’s redouble our efforts now to stand together for our kids. 

I love this community. I grew up here, raised my children here, and have spent my life working alongside families who care deeply about their children’s futures. That’s why I’m so passionate about this work, because I believe every child in Las Cruces, in Chaparral, in Hatch and across Doña Ana County and New Mexico deserves a full plate and a fair shot at success. cies that expand access to early learning and end child hunger in the U.S. and around the world.