For youth experiencing homelessness, summer isn’t just a break from school — it’s a break from routine, support, and regular meals. The long, hot days can bring more than discomfort; They can bring uncertainty. Food insecurity doesn’t just cause hunger, it chips away at a young person’s sense of safety, belonging, and stability.

That’s why simple items like snacks and gift cards aren’t just helpful — they’re essential. At HYC, we know that nutrition = stability. Granola bars, fruit cups, protein snacks, and shelf-stable items do more than just fill a gap. These simple items send a message that someone cares.

And while snacks meet an urgent need, gift cards go even further. Gift cards for groceries and on-the-go meal options give youth something they rarely experience: the dignity of choice. Being able to pick out their own food decisions or grab a quick bite on a hard day helps restore a sense of autonomy and control — two things often lost in crisis.

This isn’t just about food. It’s about wellness. For young people experiencing homelessness, consistent access to food is more than a basic need. It’s a key part of recovery. When a young person doesn’t know where their next meal is coming from, their body stays in survival mode.

Food insecurity takes a deep emotional toll — it creates shame, anxiety, and a constant undercurrent of fear. As 412 Food Rescue puts it, that stress compounds trauma and makes it harder to heal. Summer can deepen this challenge. When school is out, many youth lose their most reliable source of meals and hydration. Food and water aren’t just physical needs, they’re emotional care.

June is PTSD Awareness Month — and it’s important to recognize that many youth we serve are also living with the effects of trauma. And meeting basic needs like food is one way we begin to rebuild a sense of trust and safety.

When youth are nourished, they’re more likely to focus, rest, and engage in programs that support their long-term wellbeing.

HOW YOU CAN HELP
We’re collecting:
• Shelf-stable snacks – individual trail mix, granola bars, fruit cups, protein bars, and other grab-and-go items
• Gift Cards – for groceries and on-the-go meal options ($10–$25 preferred)

WHERE to GIVE
1. Check out our Amazon Wish-List
2. Drop-off by appointment: Tuesday–Thursday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at our administrative office. Please contact us at 602-847-4300, ext. 106 to schedule a time.
3. Gift cards: In-person drop-off of gift cards is preferred when possible, to ensure safe receipt, but they may also be mailed. Please contact us at 602-847-4300, ext. 106.

Your donation might seem small, but it could be the most comforting part of someone’s day, especially during the summer months when youth lose access to school meals. Thank you for standing with youth experiencing homelessness this summer.