Recent grants support All Faiths Food Bank's BackPack Program

Nearly 50% of Sarasota County and 100% of DeSoto County students rely on free and reduced-cost meals at school. However, over the weekend, as well as during holidays and breaks from school, these children lose access to those meals.

To help fill the hunger gap, All Faiths Food Bank’s BackPack Program provides pre-packed "backpacks" for weekly distribution to children for weekends and during holidays/school breaks. The program is targeted toward children who are living in households that are at risk of food insecurity.

At 76 schools and youth-serving organizations, students can receive “backpacks” filled with child-friendly, nutritious foods.

The BackPack Program would not be possible without the considerable support from local organizations, corporations and foundations. Some notable 2023 contributors to the Food Bank’s BackPack program to-date include: Community Foundation of Sarasota County, $25,000; Sarasota Yacht Club, $25,000; The Venice Golf and Country Club, $5,000; and Florida Winefest & Auction, $5,000.

“We know that hunger hinders the academic development of school-age children, with potentially lifelong impacts to their health and prospects for future financial stability,” said All Faiths Food Bank CEO Sandra Frank. “By providing healthy foods, we can help children to learn and thrive. We are so grateful to the funders who have partnered with us in the fight against childhood hunger.”

For more about All Faiths Food Bank, visit allfaithsfoodbank.org.

About All Faiths Food Bank
All Faiths Food Bank is the only food bank and largest hunger relief organization in Sarasota and DeSoto counties, providing millions of meals each year in collaboration with 480 programs and partner agencies throughout the community. All Faiths works not only to end hunger today but also strives to end hunger - forever - by helping families and individuals gain long-term food security, enjoy better health outcomes, and achieve self-sufficiency. All Faiths is rated 4 stars by Charity Navigator and is a member of the Feeding America and Feeding Florida networks. For more information visit allfaithsfoodbank.org.