Hunger During the Holidays
12/14/2025- FRAN is filled with snack bags for students who will lose access to free meal programs during winter break.
The holiday season is known as a time of connection and celebration, giving Austinites a chance to unwind and spend time with friends and family. But for many of our neighbors, the holidays can bring new challenges and added stress. In December, the everyday obstacles of food insecurity intensify as essential costs rise and holiday expectations grow.
Financial strain
The winter months create additional costs for households across the city. When schools close their doors for winter break, families face extra childcare expenses or parents have to take time off from work. As temperatures drop, heating bills increase. Although these costs impact all Austinites, they are especially burdensome for neighbors already experiencing food insecurity. With expenses increasing, some of our community members face difficult choices between food, childcare, utilities, or medication.
School closures
Although students look forward to winter break, school closures can create challenges for students and families experiencing food insecurity. When schools close, students lose access to critical free meal programs. For many families, this assistance is the difference between proper nutrition and skipped meals. Without school meals, our neighbors face additional barriers to feeding their families.
Holiday pressures
While holiday traditions can provide joy and connection, they can also create stress. The pressure to decorate, host, and buy presents can amplify the existing obstacles of food insecurity as community members contend with limited resources.
At Keep Austin Fed, we are committed to reducing hunger in our community and combatting food insecurity during the holidays and beyond. Alongside our network of partners, we aim to build an Austin where no one has to reckon with the burden of food insecurity.
If you are interested in supporting our work during the holidays and beyond, visit our Support Us page to learn more about volunteering, donating, or hosting a food drive.