Who We Are…
Our Mission
Lunch It Forward exists to eliminate school lunch debt and protect children from the shame and stress that come with it. We ensure students can eat without interruption, families aren’t burdened by unpaid balances, and classrooms stay focused on learning. Because no child should have to worry about food at school.
What We Believe
We believe food is a basic need - not a privilege, families shouldn’t be penalized for falling just outside assistance thresholds, and schools should never have to choose between feeding kids and collecting debt. Most of all, we believe dignity belongs in every lunchroom — because when children are fed without fear or stigma, they’re free to learn and thrive.
Our Impact
Together, with your support, we can partner directly with public schools to remove lunch debt so children can eat freely, families can breathe easier, and classrooms can stay focused on learning.
Our Story
Lunch It Forward began with a simple belief: no child should feel embarrassed, anxious, or singled out because they can’t afford a school lunch.
Growing up, I was taught the importance of dignity and generosity. I came to believe that caring for others doesn’t have to be loud or public — sometimes the most meaningful kindness happens quietly. When someone needs help, you simply help. No recognition required.
This mission is also personal.
My grandmother was a school lunchroom manager for 22 years. At her funeral, someone approached me and said, “I’m here because Blanche never let me go hungry.” It was something she had never talked about, but it meant everything to the person standing in front of me.
That moment stayed with me.
Because it shouldn’t take quiet heroes bending rules behind the scenes to make sure children are fed.
We can do better — openly, systemically, and compassionately.
How one quiet act of kindness inspired a mission to eliminate school lunch debt.
That’s why Lunch It Forward exists: to quietly eliminate school lunch debt so children can receive the meals they need without stigma, interruption, or embarrassment.
Kerry Kelley
Founder, Lunch It Forward
Blanche Iona Parker