Stories

Why I Give: Susannah Gustafson, MOM Board Member

Giving Tuesday • Why I Give

As a mom to three kids, I love to make meals that my kids want to eat. I can’t imagine what it would feel like as a parent to not be able to give your kids the healthy, tasty food they want and need. I give so that every parent in our community can provide food for their family, regardless of their circumstances.

Why I Give: Starr Grass Band

Siblings Lucas, Lucy and Laura are local musicians who use their talents to support MOM and make a difference for other kids in their community. They play music at the Westside Community Farmer’s Market, setting out a hat to collect donations as people pass by. Then they contribute what they raise to MOM. Here's why they do it.

You can prevent kids from experiencing the trauma of homelessness.

Giving Tuesday

Josh, a fifth grader, has a knack for making friends. At school, you can always find him surrounded by other kids. Recently, Josh's mom lost her job because she missed a lot of days of work to take care of Josh’s sick brother, making it impossible to pay rent. This led to an eviction notice. With nowhere else to go, Josh’s family will soon be homeless. Research says the disruption and trauma of homelessness can impact Josh’s emotional health long term. He will be much more likely to develop anxiety as well as to become withdrawn and depressed.

You can make sure teens have the food they need to be healthy.

Giving Tuesday

Sofia has always loved to run. Even as a kindergartener, she could outrun any kid on the school playground in a game of tag. Now, as a junior in high school, she runs on the varsity track team. But recently Sofia’s dad got sick and can’t work very much. Now, Sofia often doesn’t have enough to eat. Research says Sofia is more likely to get sick with everything from stomach aches to asthma. She will have less energy for running—and even lose strength and physical ability.

You can help seniors stay in their homes.

Giving Tuesday

Henry has lived in his home for 47 years. He knows everyone on his street, goes to the church around the corner and shops at the grocery store a few blocks away. As he has gotten older though, staying in his home has gotten more difficult. Without help, Henry may have to leave his home. Research says severing connections and leaving their communities can be traumatic for older adults, increasing feelings of isolation and even decreasing quality and length of life.

You can help families keep their electricity on.

Giving Tuesday

Brianna and her husband, Mark, were excited when they learned they would be having their second baby. Then some pregnancy complications meant Brianna had to leave her job sooner than they planned. Without her income, Brianna and Mark didn't have enough funds to pay their utility bill for several months during the summer—and their power was shut off. Research says living without electricity can cause health impacts and significant discomfort, as well as disrupt family routines and social supports.

You can give young children the nutrition they need to grow and learn.

Giving Tuesday

At age two, Daxx never holds still. He is always on the go, always exploring and learning. But last month, Daxx’s dad lost his job. To make their limited savings last longer, Daxx’s dad now only buys the cheapest food he can find. Research says not getting sufficient nutrition could affect Daxx’s cognitive development, decreasing his curiosity and his ability to absorb new information.

You can make sure kids have the food they need to succeed academically.

Giving Tuesday

Amy loves doing her math homework. She loves it so much that she usually gets the homework for the whole week done on the first night. Recently, Amy’s mother can’t afford to buy food and pay rent. Sometimes Amy is hungry when she goes to bed at night. Research says hunger could prevent Amy from excelling in math.

Can you help me reach my dreams?

Giving Tuesday

At nine months old, Ava’s family already has big dreams for her. Her sister says she’s destined to be a drummer in a famous band. Her brother says she’s going to be an Olympic runner for sure. Her mom says Ava will definitely be a brain surgeon. But a few months ago, the family ran into some unexpected bumps. Now, Ava doesn’t have enough to eat.

Can you help me become a vet?

Giving Tuesday

Madelyn may only be three years old, but she already knows that she wants to take care of animals when she grows up. She is friends with all of the dogs in the neighborhood. Recently Madelyn’s family faced a major expense they weren’t prepared for. Now they can’t afford healthy food and Madelyn’s parents are worried about the electricity getting turned off. Usually bubbly and fun, Madelyn has become quiet and withdrawn.