San Diego Food Bank’s Backpack Program Brings Hope to Students Facing Food Insecurity
Fridays are a day of excitement for most elementary school children, but for those who rely on free school meals, weekends can bring feelings of uncertainty, according to the Jacobs & Cushman San Diego Food Bank . Many students will go the entire weekend without food.
That's why Mission Fed Credit Union is partnering with the Food Bank to support its longtime Food 4 Kids Backpack Program during September's San Diego Hunger Awareness Month.
The initiative provides food-filled backpacks to elementary students living in poverty, ensuring they have enough to eat over the weekends when school meals are unavailable.
Studies show that children who participate in these programs see improved self-esteem, better school behavior and enhanced academic performance, according to the Food Bank.
Currently, 80 San Diego County elementary schools in 19 districts are enrolled, benefiting over 3,500 students weekly, the hunger-relief organization reported.
"We have seen time and time again how generous our members, our staff and the greater San Diego community are — particularly when it comes to kids," said Doug Wright, Mission Fed's president and CEO.
"It costs the Food Bank $8 to feed one child for one weekend, but we encourage everyone to donate what they are able to give," Wright said. "Together we can make a difference in the fight against childhood hunger."
