For our Chief Operating Officer, Misty, it feels like just yesterday she was taking her daughter Marlowe to the store so she could pick out the school supplies that would accompany her through another year of school.

Now, they're picking out desk lamps and extra phone chargers before moving into her dorm at Appalachian State next week. Even though the shopping list has changed, Misty still wants her to have everything she needs so she can be excited about all the things she will learn and experience these next four years. Every child deserves the opportunity to be prepared, grow, thrive, and reach their full potential. Whether it's pushing for interventions to keep SNAP strong so kids can get the food they need to grow up strong, or investing in mental health supports to help young people navigate their hardships, or any other number of solutions, the important thing is that we all find a way to take action. Thanks to the generosity of a funding partner, every gift made to NC Child will be matched dollar for dollar, up to $25,000, to help support our work. This back-to-school season, consider making a gift to NC Child that doubles your impact and helps us ensure every child is ready for the year ahead. Donate today at ncchild.org/give.