In a sad sign of our times, “Sesame Street” is taking on the challenge to educate children about hunger. And to perhaps, build better understanding among children about their peers who have less. The same show that brought us Cookie Monster, to teach about gluttony, will now have a special one-hour episode where a hungry character named Lily will be introduced. Lily is a 7-year old Muppet whose family has fallen on tough times and must depend upon food pantries and her school’s lunch program. (See clip below)
The Department of Agriculture estimates that about 17 million American children — nearly 1 in 4 — are “food insecure,” meaning their access to affordable and nutritious food is limited. Walmart is sponsoring the show as part of a $1.5 million grant toward the initiative, and country singer Brad Paisley and his actress wife Kimberly Williams Paisley are costarring. The episode is scheduled to air later in October.
For more see New York Times