FOOD 4 KIDS
Fighting Childhood Hunger in Marion County
Fighting Childhood Hunger in Marion County
Food 4 Kids was created in 2004 when it came to the attention of school teachers that many children did not have adequate meals over the weekends. Our “backpack program” was created to provide food for at risk children, that qualify for free lunch. Guidance counselors at the schools provide referrals for children to receive a backpack. Food 4 Kids then fills each backpack with enough food for each child in the household, to enjoy 6 weekend meals.
The week begins at Food 4 Kids with our volunteers packing bags of food for each household. Each child receives a durable, rolling backpack for the school year. The volunteer delivers the food directly to the school, tagged for each child. The child takes the backpack home on Friday afternoon and returns them to school on Monday morning. Then, the process starts all over again. Our volunteers are vital to this program.
Backpacks can include: canned chicken, ramen, macaroni & cheese, peanut butter and jelly, pudding & fruit cups, snack bars, oatmeal, pop tarts, crackers and canned vegetables.
The program depends on the donations of time and resources from individuals, churches, businesses and organizations. The average cost per child is approximately $25.00 a month. Special food drives with specific items also help this program tremendously. Help us ensure that no child goes to bed hungry in Marion County. To find out more about Food 4 Kids, contact them at (352) 620-8239.
Be Part of the Pack
Your business can be a beacon of hope. Join us in the fight against childhood hunger by helping fill a child's backpack.
The "Be a Part of the Pack" Initiative is a powerful way for your business to help. By committing to cover the cost or collect one specific food item - you ensure a steady supply of that item for our backpacks. Help feed children right here in our community!
Join the Movement. Choose Your Way to Give.
Becoming a partner is simple. Choose the option that best fits your business:
Corporate Sponsorship: Commit to a recurring donation that covers the cost of purchasing one food item. This provides consistent, reliable support. Here's examples of how you can help:
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A snack for 1,500 kids for 1 week $287
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Breakfast for 1,500 for a week $475
(example above or pick your own monthly amount)
Employee Food Drive: Engage your team by holding a food drive within your business to collect a specific, high-need item each quarter or semester. It's a fantastic way to boost employee morale and make a tangible impact on our community.
Reach out to Dani Fee at (352) 620-8239 to find out how your business can ensure no child goes hungry in Marion County.
