Local Backpack Program provides Food to Area Children

The Wahpeton Rotary Club was honored by a visit from Colleen Barton and Becky Stasko of The Backpack Program, which serves Richland and Wilkin County.

 

The duo spoke about the mission of the Backpack Program, which is to help children in the two counties who may be food insecure.  Whereas these children are provided meals during the week, on the weekend they may not have enough to eat.  The Backpack Program began as a way to address this issue.  Each week, backpacks are prepared with 2 breakfast items, 3 lunch or dinner items, and 2 snacks.  Through the help of local volunteers, these backpacks are assembled and distributed to area schools to be sent home with participating students on Friday afternoon.

 

Now in its fourth year, the number of children the Backpack Program serves has been steadily increasing, from 80 students in the 1st year, to now 314 in the 4th year.  There are no income guidelines for those who wish to participate in the program: it is open to any children/families who express interest and sign up with their school.

 

Funding for the program initially came from a grant given to the United Way from the West Central Initiative.  As the program continues to grow, the program relies upon volunteers, monetary donations, and donations of food that can be included in the backpacks.  It truly is a great program, and a great service to our area children!

 

How you can help:

- Donate money to the United Way

-Buy food to donate-- Peanut Butter is always needed!

-Hold a Food drive or Fundraiser

-Volunteer to help pack the backpacks

-HELP TELL THE STORY!  Many in our community do not realize that there are children in the area who are food insecure!

Colleen Barton and Becky Stasko of The Backpack Program