Great Falls Food Bank Expands ‘Backpacks4Kids’ Program to Nourish More Children in Need

The Great Falls Community Food Bank has been running its ‘Backpacks4Kids’ program since 2011. It started by providing food packs to just four of the most underprivileged elementary schools. By 2017, the program expanded to include all 15 elementary schools in Great Falls, along with Vaughn school.

Exciting news is on the horizon! The food bank plans to grow this initiative even more in the Fall of 2025. It will start delivering food packs to both middle schools in Great Falls. Sandra Ferno, the office manager of the food bank, notes that many children in the area face food insecurity. This program helps fill a crucial gap in their lives.

“Once the child graduates from sixth grade, they move up to seventh and eighth grades, and they lose access to the Backpacks4Kids program,” Ferno explains. The need for assistance has grown across Great Falls over recent years.

Brian Miller, principal at North Middle School, emphasizes the importance of this program. He worries about families at his school who struggle to put food on the table. “We’re all feeling the stress of an economy that’s getting more expensive. One of the first things families cut back on is food,” he says. He believes it’s essential for kids to come to school well-fed.

Starting in the Fall of 2025, the food bank will deliver more than 1,200 packs each week to the 15 elementary schools and two middle schools in Great Falls. They will also include Centerville School in their outreach.

When schools receive support like this, it makes a big difference. “Anytime someone comes alongside schools with resources, it helps us do our job better, and our kids are happier,” Miller adds.

Currently, the Backpacks4Kids program costs the food bank around $125,000 each year. With the upcoming expansion, they anticipate a 30% increase in their budget. “Community support is definitely needed,” warns Ferno, who encourages monetary donations to help sustain this vital service.

Food insecurity is a pressing issue. According to a recent report from the USDA, in 2022, around 10.2% of households in the U.S. faced food insecurity at some point during the year. Programs like Backpacks4Kids are essential as they not only provide meals but also offer a sense of security and stability for children.

You can learn more about how to support this important program here.

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