ChronicleOnline: Feeding children a backpack at a time
Feeding children a backpack at a time
By Nancy Kennedy
Friday, February 25, 2011
Last year, 55 students at Hernando Elementary School were trailblazers.
In a pilot program based on eligibility for free or reduced lunches, each Friday students picked up a backpack filled with food for the weekend.
As a result, those participating in the program saw gains of at least 25 percent in the areas of reading, attendance and behavior. Their tummies weren’t growling as much anymore.
This year, 62 students at Homosassa Elementary and 99 at Floral City Elementary and other schools are also receiving food, courtesy of the Blessings in a Backpack, a nationwide program of USA Harvest and a local program of Citrus County Harvest.
Each student receives three protein items, crackers, an entree, fruit, cereal and snack items. Once a month they receive plastic jars of peanut butter and jelly and a box of (shelf-stable) milk if available. Enough food is also sent home for younger siblings who don’t go to school.
All food or funds are donated through individuals, churches, civic clubs, foundations and schools.
For information, on help with Blessings in a Backpack, call Citrus County Harvest at (352) 341-7707
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