At a recent gala in Atlanta, Maggie Baird, the mother of renowned musicians Billie Eilish and Finneas, was awarded the “Superhero for Earth” title by the Captain Planet Foundation. This accolade recognizes her significant contributions to environmental and food security initiatives.
Maggie Baird’s nonprofit organization, Support + Feed, plays a crucial role in tackling food insecurity and environmental issues across 11 U.S. cities, with expanded efforts in Europe, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Her work is complemented by the influence of her Grammy-winning children, Billie Eilish and Finneas, who amplify her message.
“People need food. People need food every day and our climate is really in trouble and we’ve got to address our food systems,” Baird commented, highlighting the urgent need to address food systems’ impact on the climate. Baird emphasized the importance of ‘daily wins’ that help individuals in their day-to-day struggles, showcasing the tangible outcomes of Support + Feed’s initiatives.
The Captain Planet Foundation, based in Atlanta and co-founded by Ted Turner, focuses on youth involvement in environmental issues globally. The foundation supports initiatives such as school gardens, which have engaged over 1.7 million children since its inception in 1991. Baird expressed her admiration for the foundation, recognizing the spotlight they place on her organization’s work.
In her acceptance speech, Baird noted the integral role of Captain Planet in educating young people about the environment. “I really admire this organization, Captain Planet, and I really appreciate their shining a light on what we do at Support + Feed,” she stated. This connection between her organization and Captain Planet highlights the collaborative efforts required to foster environmental awareness and action.
Maggie Baird’s recognition at the Captain Planet Foundation gala underscores the impact of her dedication to environmental and food security issues. Her efforts, bolstered by her children’s fame, illustrate how individual and collective actions can lead to substantial positive changes.