Statement from Dr. Cooper: I am the Director of Creative Therapies in Stamford where I specialize in the psychological care of children and their families. Given that my service is my passion, you might imagine my upset when I learned that children right here in the wealthiest state in the nation go hungry.

According to the State Department of Education 54% of Stamford children are eligible for free or reduced school meals. Children are eligible for subsidized meals if their family is on SNAP/Food Stamps, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), or at certain percentages of poverty.

So, while these children have access to breakfast and lunch on school days, and that is terrific, I want to increase awareness, service and funding for what happens when school is out, particularly during the summer months when many of our local children cannot count on breakfast or lunch. The ramifications of undernourishment tragically renders all aspects of children’s development. This includes emotional, behavioral, intellectual, physical and social development. To cite just a few of many concerns, respectively, this would mean mood, conduct, academic success, vulnerability to obesity and friendship fallout.

All proceeds from this art show will go directly to feed hungry Stamford children on non-school days. The organization I’ve partnered with is the Food Bank of Lower Fairfield County (www.foodbanklfc.org) and I have requested the donation to the Food Bank be earmarked to target educating Stamford families in need of food. My goal is two fold to educate those who can help and those who are in need. I am asking companies to match donations, wherever available.