First Time Fears

What if trying something new feels scary before you even get there?

Frank has never been to a food bank before, and his Worry Monster is filling his head with questions. What if his friends make fun of him? What if he doesn't like the food? What if he doesn't belong?

But when Frank finally walks through the doors, he discovers something completely different from what he imagined: good food, new friends, laughter, and a community where he belongs. Soon, the place he was afraid to visit becomes a place he can't wait to return to.

First Time Fears is a heartwarming children's picture book about food insecurity, anxiety, belonging, community, and overcoming fears about new experiences. Created by young author Melody Ellis and young illustrator Kaylee Weissinger, this Food for Friends companion book encourages children to question their own "Worry Monsters" and discover what can happen when they find the courage to try something new.

Sometimes the things we're afraid of aren't so scary once we give them a chance.