If the constant news reports, climbing numbers, disturbing data, foreclosure signs and Wall Street protests weren't sign enough, there is new evidence that the economic recession has taken hold and won't let go. Sesame Street is unveiling a new puppet character who is part of a low-income family who deals with hunger in their household:
The iconic kids show is set to unveil a new impoverished puppet named Lily, whose family faces an ongoing struggle with hunger issues. Lily will be revealed in a one-hour Sesame Street primetime special, Growing Hope Against Hunger, which is being sponsored by Walmart. The special will star country singer Brad Paisley and his wife Kimberly Williams Paisley, as well as the Sesame Street Muppets.
“Food insecurity is a growing and difficult issue for adults to discuss, much less children,” said the Paisleys in a statement. “We are honored that Sesame Street, with its long history of tackling difficult issues with sensitivity, caring and warmth asked us to be a part of this important project.”
The special will share the stories of real-life families to raise awareness of hunger issues in the United States, as well as strategies that have helped these families find food.
This is an important move by Sesame Street, but wow. This addition really drives home not only the severity of the recession, but the likelihood that the tragic downturn is here to stay.
