New York, NY – March 14, 2025 – New York Knicks star Jalen Brunson is stepping up off the court, making a game-changing investment in the health and success of New York City students. Through a generous $328,000 donation to DREAM’s Scratch Food Program, Brunson is helping to ensure that every child has access to fresh, nutritious meals—fueling their potential in school, sports, and life.
The DREAM Scratch Food Program provides healthy, nourishing, scratch-made meals for DREAM students, families, and staff, fostering well-being in the communities where they play, learn, and grow. With this significant financial boost, DREAM will expand its ability to serve fresh, high-quality meals, ensuring that nutrition is never a barrier to academic success or personal growth.
“At DREAM, we believe that food is more than just sustenance—it’s a bridge to culture, connection, and community,” said Raymie Fernandez, Chief Operating Officer and leader of the Scratch Food Program at DREAM. “Thanks to Jalen Brunson and the Second Round Foundation, we can leverage the power of food as a tool for equity—ensuring that every child has the foundation they need to thrive while building a stronger future for our communities.”
The donation comes through Brunson’s nonprofit, the Second Round Foundation, an organization dedicated to creating equity for young people through education, sports, and community initiatives. The foundation’s vision aligns perfectly with DREAM’s mission, and together, they are taking meaningful steps to empower young individuals to chart their own paths to success, regardless of background or circumstances.
“Growing up, I realized how important a strong support system is—whether in sports, school, or everyday life. DREAM is about providing that foundation for young people, and I’m honored to be part of this effort to fuel the next generation,” said Jalen Brunson.
The DREAM Scratch Food Program is an innovative partnership between Brigaid, Katzman Produce, and the Second Round Foundation, setting a new standard for how schools integrate nutrition, wellness, and education. With a full-service commercial kitchen and a Michelin-starred chef at the helm, the program ensures that more than 1,000 students receive nutritious, scratch-made meals through the network of seven schools.
As part of its expansion, DREAM is making key investments to scale the program’s reach, including broader nutrition and wellness initiatives that serve both students and families. “This initiative is just one part of DREAM’s Grow the Whole Child model, where deep love and high expectations shape a holistic approach to education—ensuring every child is supported to reach their full potential,” said Maria Griffin, DREAM’s Chief Advancement Officer.
DREAM and the Second Round Foundation are proving that when schools, communities, and athletes come together, incredible things happen. To learn more about how you can support this initiative or others supported by the Foundation, visit www.secondroundfoundation.org.