The BackPack Program is one of many programs Food Bank for the Heartland supports to fight childhood hunger. Recent statistics show that 1 in 5 children are food insecure in Nebraska and western Iowa. This program is designed to provide 4 weekend meals for children whose families have limited resources. The cost to sponsor one child for the academic school year is $164. Each week during the school year, 8,357 meal packs—equaling 33,428 meals—of easy-to-prepare or ready-to-eat nutritious food are distributed to children in 252 schools in 112 school districts in Nebraska and western Iowa. In portions of the Food Bank's service area, the BackPack Program is the only food assistance option to which families have access. These meals help nourish children over the weekend and enable them to thrive in school and better reach developmental milestones.

Select the ‘Recurring’ button below to become a Meal Maker and help children in need with BackPack meals every single month through a recurring gift.