How can a restaurant chain impact childhood hunger in the United States? Cal State Fullerton graduate student Anakari Corona answered this question and received a Denny’s Hungry for Education scholarship.
In her award-winning essay, Corona calls for a better understanding of the complex needs of children living in poverty and recommends intervention at the individual, community and policy levels.
“I am passionate about issues that affect disadvantaged populations,” said Corona, who has volunteered with several community organizations, including Ark Homes Foster Family Agency and Orange County Community Housing Corporation. “I will continue to be involved in my community through advocating for the less fortunate and providing services for the rest of my life.”
Administered by the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU), the scholarship was awarded to five student recipients from HACU-member institutions in Texas, New York and California.
“As a Latina who comes from a family of immigrants, I experienced childhood hunger and know how detrimental it is and how it affects a child’s development,” said Corona.
Corona is working toward her master of social work degree and previously received a bachelor of science in human services, also at CSUF. She is the first in her family to graduate from college and the first to pursue a graduate degree.
“I believe that education is the key to a promising future,” she said. “I will definitely pass my message and life experiences to others who, like me, were considered at-risk youth, but in fact have a bright future through hard work, education and persistence.”