BACKPACK PROGRAM EXPANDED TO FEED MORE STUDENTS
July 31, 2023. The Food Network of Somerset County is excited to announce an increase in the number of low-income children enrolled in our “Backpack Program” that is designed to combat child hunger. Many students in Somerset County rely on free or reduced lunches during the week, but they don’t receive these over the weekend.  To address this, the Food Bank Network of Somerset County prepares 1 gallon bags (see picture); each one contains ready to eat meals, breakfast items, snacks, and beverages. Last academic year (2022-2023), 811 students were enrolled in the Backpack Program and received over 30,000 meals, in total.  

We are proud to announce that this program will be expanded to help an additional 90 students starting this mid-September. The additional children will be preschoolers attending the Head Start programs run by the HOPES Community Action Partnership, Incorporated (HOPES CAP, Inc.), a nonprofit agency that provides social, educational, and training programs in Franklin Township. Head Start preschool services work with children ages 3 to 5 from low-income families to prepare them for kindergarten.

A donation of just $320 sponsors a Backpack Program child for the entire academic year. With your generous support, our goal is to continue growing the Backpack Program to reach as many kids as possible that are in need throughout Somerset County. 

Thank you for your generosity. Together, we can make a positive impact and ensure that no child in our community goes hungry. Let’s work hand in hand to support these wonderful kids and help them thrive!