Fighting Hunger at the Start of the School Year
- MissionEB
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
When students walk back through the school doors—eager to learn, to grow, to belong—the last thing they should be worried about is what's in their lunchbox. Several mission‑driven nonprofits ensure that no child starts their day, or their weekend, on an empty stomach. These organizations lead powerful hunger‑relief initiatives and foster unique values‑based workplace cultures that attract passionate talent.
Below are seven standout nonprofit organizations, each with an active hiring pipeline and actively building teams to do more.
Blessings in a Backpack
Blessings in a Backpack focuses on ending weekend hunger for school-aged children by mobilizing communities across the country. With a culture rooted in volunteerism, sustainability, and measurable impact, the team creates an environment where every role directly contributes to kids arriving at school ready to learn. Employees value the community engagement and the opportunity to see tangible results from their work.
FoodCorps
FoodCorps places AmeriCorps service members in schools to teach nutrition education, grow school gardens, and build farm-to-school programs. The culture blends service with innovation, emphasizing mentorship, leadership growth, and strong community partnerships. Team members thrive in an environment where purpose and professional development intersect, making it an ideal place for those passionate about food justice and education.
Greater Chicago Food Depository
The Greater Chicago Food Depository leads a large-scale regional network, serving hundreds of thousands annually through pantries, mobile services, and even lunch buses. The organization fosters a collaborative culture centered on operational excellence and community-driven innovation. Employees join a team where logistics, outreach, and development all contribute to addressing food insecurity at scale, while learning from one of the most respected models in the country.
Wellness in the Schools (WITS)
Wellness in the Schools is reimagining cafeteria culture by introducing fresh, healthy meals, environmental stewardship, and active play programs. Its team thrives in a creative and dynamic environment that blends wellness, education, and advocacy. Working here means being part of a national movement to reshape how schools approach food and health, while collaborating with educators, chefs, and fitness leaders.
BackPack Beginnings
BackPack Beginnings ensures children don’t go hungry over the weekend while also supporting families with markets and coaching programs. The organization’s culture is compassionate and empowering, with a strong commitment to dignity and respect in every interaction. Staff here play a direct role in both immediate hunger relief and in helping families find long-term stability, making it a meaningful and people-centered place to work.
Capuchin Soup Kitchen
The Capuchin Soup Kitchen in Detroit has provided meals, clothing, recovery services, and youth programs since 1929. The culture is rooted in community care and social justice, offering employees the chance to be part of a holistic mission that extends beyond food insecurity. Staff experience the fulfillment of working in an environment where service, compassion, and advocacy intersect every day.
Capuchin Soup Kitchen - Volunteer
Playworks
Playworks may not be a traditional food organization, but its programs transform the lunch and recess experience for children in underserved schools by fostering structured play, conflict resolution, and fitness. Its culture is vibrant and energetic, perfect for people who thrive in collaborative, high-impact environments. Employees enjoy the unique opportunity to influence both school culture and student wellbeing at a national scale.
Careers: playworks.org/careers
Why Do These Organizations Fighting Hunger Stand Out?
Each of these nonprofits proves that fighting hunger and supporting student wellbeing requires more than just food—it takes innovation, compassion, and community.
As employers, they offer purpose-driven environments where your work connects directly to children’s futures. Whether it’s logistics at a food bank, advocacy in schools, or creative programming in cafeterias, these organizations provide meaningful career paths for those who want to combine professional growth with making a difference.
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