The Ozarks Food Harvest announced Monday they are in critical need of financial donations to maintain the Weekend Backpack Program, which sends home nutritious meals to families in need in 61 Ozarks area schools.
The program, which supports more than 1,600 children, has seen significant cost increases to the items in the bag due to supply chain issues related to COVID-19. The backpacks contain two breakfasts, two lunches, two dinners, and two snacks along with beverages for students in need. The meals are easy-to-open and follow strict nutritional guidelines.
“Now more than ever, in the midst of a global pandemic, we must focus on the health and safety of our students, including meeting the needs of students who are food insecure,” Jean Grabeel, director of health services for Springfield Public Schools, said in a statement. “Ozarks Food Harvest is a valued partner providing support to help meet those food needs through the Weekend Backpack Program.”
The cost for one child for one year has increased to $360, or $30 per month.
“We have to make sure that these kids have food for the weekends this school year,” Bart Brown, president/CEO of Ozarks Food Harvest, said in a statement. “About 1 in 5 children in southwest Missouri are food insecure, and because we’re not exactly sure what the upcoming school year will look like and the food is more expensive, generous support from the community is more important than ever. Whether they’re learning at home or online, it’s imperative that children are able to focus on school instead of hunger.”
Last year, the program provided 350,000 meals to food-insecure children.
If you would like to give to help Ozarks Food Harvest maintain the Weekend Backpack Program, visit their website to donate.
