Provided by
SMT Writer Beth Farrah
The Richland school district recently launched the Backpack Program (also referred to as Backpacks for Friday or the “BFF Program”) on September 21st. This program helps feed the elementary students whose families cannot afford meals over the weekend.
Every Friday, the High School Beta Club members volunteer to fill the backpacks and send them home with the students. On Monday, the students will bring the backpacks back and they will be refilled for the following weekend. This process lasts all year long, giving each student involved with the program an opportunity to eat nutritiously at home with their families every weekend.
The program is lead by the school nurse, Mrs. Jones, who is currently collecting cereal, canned foods, snacks, and other food that will not spoil easily. Many of the teachers, students, and school-related organizations are reaching out and helping families of the community.
In Stoddard County, the child food insecurity rate is 24%. This means that 24% of the children in our county are not sure where their next meal will come from. Although most children that attend school are promised breakfast and lunch, their dinner and weekend meals are still not guaranteed for some families who have financial issues.
The Backpack Program is lead by the Southeast Missouri Food Bank and the Richland school district is excited and proud to be a part of this great organization. It is important for kids to get good nutrition so they can stay focused on schoolwork and start living a healthy life during the most crucial time of their growth.
The backpacks are not only important for families over the weekends, but they are also needed for the days or weeks students will not be at school. During the holiday seasons, the backpacks will be packed much fuller so that the family will be able to eat well while the children are on a break from school. Toys and games will also be placed in the backpacks over Christmas Break in case the families cannot afford them for the holiday.
Many surrounding communities, schools, and churches take part in Backpack Program but they cannot function all on their own. Many helping hands are needed to get the program up and running efficiently, whether you are offering your time, money, or food to a child who needs it. Richland would like to thank students and families who support and donate to the program.
