ALLEN COUNTY, Ind. (WPTA) – The Allen County Public Library is increasing its partnership with Blessings in a Backpack this summer season, with plans to greater than double the quantity of meals given to native kids.
The organizations’ program, which is supposed to struggle childhood starvation, launched final 12 months and gave away greater than 4,400 luggage of shelf-stable meals, sufficient to feed a baby over the weekend. The St. Joe Group Well being Basis estimates 14% of Allen County residents are meals insecure, together with greater than 18,000 kids.
This 12 months, it’ll function from Could 30 via July 25 and distribute about 10,800 throughout the next library branches:
- Important Library;
- Georgetown;
- Hessen Cassel;
- Little Turtle;
- Pontiac;
- Shawnee;
- Tecumseh; and
- Waynedale.
“Combating meals insecurity is not only about offering meals; it’s about making a supportive community that empowers each little one to thrive,” stated Jama Ross, Government Director of Blessings in a Backpack. “Via this partnership, we are able to nourish each the physique and the thoughts, making certain that no little one is left hungry or with out the assets they should succeed.”
The places may also proceed an ongoing relationship with Fort Wayne Group Faculties by giving out free lunches and snacks on weekdays.
“We’re so happy to have the ability to broaden our partnership with Blessings in a Backpack and proceed to serve our youngest patrons with weekend meals,” stated ACPL Youth Companies Supervisor Jacki Fulwood. “It’s difficult to consider studying while you’re nervous about the place your subsequent meal will come from.”
“It’s our hope that offering this service is another manner we are able to assist our neighborhood, fill in gaps over the summer season, and join with our patrons in significant methods.”
The luggage, that are free, will likely be out there to individuals 18 years outdated and youthful.
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