Sesame Workshop Premiers TV Special to Raise Awareness of Family Hunger
New Sesame Street Muppet Lily Introduced
PBS stations across the country premiered the one hour television special Growing Hope Against Hunger yesterday, which portrays families’ personal stories to raise awareness of the widespread issue of hunger in the United States, as well as strategies that have helped these families find resources and grow stronger together. Growing Hope Against Hunger also introduces a new Muppet named Lily whose family has an ongoing struggle with hunger.
A Spanish version of the special will air October 22 at 1 PM ET/PT on Univision and on October 23 at 1 PM ET/PT on Telefutura. Growing Hope Against Hunger will also be aired on other dates in October. Click here for the broadcast schedule.
“Food insecurity is a growing and difficult issue for adults to discuss, much less children,” said Brad and Kimberly Paisley. “We are honored that Sesame Street, with its long history of tackling difficult issues with sensitivity, caring and warmth asked us to be a part of this important project. We hope that it will not only provide families with the tools they need to help them cope and live the healthiest life possible, but will educate the general population about the extent of food insecurity and hunger in the United States.”
The Sesame Workshop website notes that families facing food insecurity is a growing issue in the United States. The United States Department of Agriculture estimates that 17 million American children — nearly 1 in 4 — have limited or uncertain access to affordable and nutritious food. Of these children, more than half (9.6 million) are under the age of 6.
To see video highlights from the special, click here.
To learn more about this very special programming project, click here.
