Reading Rocks is More than Books

July 2026

Article by Stephanie Hobby

Photo(s) courtesy of Billings Education Foundation

It's hiding in plain sight, and it's shockingly widespread: hunger. For one in seven children in Billings, school is the primary source of regular breakfasts and lunches. When cafeterias close for the summer, the Billings Education Foundation steps in with critical support.

Food insecurity poses well-documented challenges for children, from difficulty focusing in school and developmental delays to weakened immune systems and, long-term, reduced earning potential. The Billings Education Foundation has long advocated for children facing this reality. In 2007, nutritionist Ginny Mermel launched its food insecurity program with a motto that still holds: "Keeping kids fed, fit and ready to learn, so they grow to be self-sufficient adults ready to earn."

During the school year, the Foundation distributes 1,600 BackPack meals every week and keeps school pantries stocked with food staples and hygiene supplies. In the summer, students can access meals through Lunch in the Park, but for those who can't get there, the Munch Machine fills the gap: a dedicated food pantry on wheels that delivers food kits to home schools and, when needed, directly to a child's home.

Now in its third summer, the Munch Machine serves 350 children with weekly kits packed with nutrient-dense, shelf-stable foods, fresh fruits and vegetables, and usually yogurt or another dairy item. Local businesses, including Jersey Mike's, Taco Bell, and Pizza Hut, contribute coupons redeemable for sandwiches, tacos, or personal pan pizzas. The van is also stocked with free books to encourage reading and hygiene items while school pantries are closed.

"We saw a need," says Shelley Pierce, director of donor and community relations for the Billings Education Foundation. "When we first started the Munch Machine, people would ask us what happens to kids on BackPack Meals who can't get to Lunch at the Park, or other services in the summer, and we didn't know the answer to that question. So we knew there was a need, and that's what prompted us to begin the program, to help fill that need. We don't want any kids being hungry any time of the year. We just wanted to be able to support them year-round, if they need it." The response was immediate: 250 students registered in the program's first year.

This summer, the Foundation is also encouraging children to engage with basic food preparation through simple recipes, including a Crunchy Tuna Melt made with bread, tuna salad, cheese, and the smashed pretzels included in each snack pack.

The Munch Machine runs entirely on community support. Each Monday at noon, about 20 volunteers spend just over an hour assembling kits, which are distributed Tuesday through Thursday. Corporate donations and grants keep the van on the road. To get involved or contribute, contact Pierce at 406-281-5148.

Originally printed in the July 2026 issue of Simply Local Magazine

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Stephanie Hobby

Stephanie Hobby is married to an awesome Billings guy. They love skiing, hiking, traveling, and other adventures with their two fun kids and crazy dog.

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