The Food Lounge was founded in 2021 by a group of high school friends from Dallas and Houston, Texas, who shared a deep concern for food insecurity in their communities. What began as a few student-led service projects grew into a youth-led movement.
Since then, The Food Lounge has expanded to over 10 locations across the United States, with a growing network of over 500 dedicated student members. Each chapter works independently to organize local volunteer events, partner with food banks and shelters, and raise awareness about food insecurity. Our mission remains the same: to empower youth to lead with compassion, take action in their communities, and be a force for lasting change.
Youth Taking the Lead Against Hunger
Ethan Poon – Founder / President
Ethan Poon is a junior at Cistercian Preparatory School. He is interested in mathematics, medical science, and biology. When tackling hard problems, he enjoys the logical process behind it. He also likes music and plays the cello. At school, he is the captain of the Math Club, Robotics Club and founder of the music club. In his free time, Ethan plays tennis, golf and cooks.
Alex Cai – Founder / Vice President
Alex is a sophomore at The Kinkaid School in Houston. He is interested in economics as well as mathematics and computer science. In his free time, he enjoys watching Houston sports and doing debate. He also likes listening to music and occasionally playing video games. He has a passion for community service, and is eager to continue to see the organization expand and progress. Beyond The Food Lounge, Alex loves teaching and helping kids learn.
Calvin McKee – Founder / Treasurer
Calvin is a sophomore at Greenhill School in Dallas. Calvin has a broad interest in all school subjects. He also has experience with app design, 3D printing and digital art.
Calvin has a passion for serving the community through volunteer work. As a Life rank Boy Scout, Calvin has contributed many hours of service in such areas as conservation, poverty and generally helping others in the community. He is excited to continue helping others with the Food Lounge.
In his spare time, Calvin enjoys fencing, singing and art. Calvin also loves to cook and try new recipes and experimenting in the kitchen. Outside of school-related activities, he enjoys playing video games and networking with his friends.
Edgar Poon – Founder / Secretary
Edgar is a sophomore at Shepton High School with a strong passion for community service and youth engagement. In his free time, Edgar enjoys playing tennis and giving back through volunteer work. During the summer, he combines both interests by volunteering at the Gleneagles Tennis Club, where he supports tennis programs and helps young players grow their skills.
Beyond sports, Edgar is committed to education and makes time to tutor English at local learning centers, helping students improve their reading and writing abilities. He brings the same dedication and energy to his work with The Food Lounge.
Edgar is eager to see the organization grow alongside him and looks forward to contributing to its mission in meaningful ways. He is excited for what lies ahead and is proud to be part of a movement that empowers young people to make a real difference.