Backpack Programs

This amazing partnership of donors, the Food Bank, the

agency programs, and the local schools ensure no children

go to bed hungry over the weekend in our area!

What we’re doing

 

Ensuring No Child Goes Hungry Over the Weekend

  • Feeding Kids Beyond the School Week: Thousands of children in North Alabama rely on free or reduced-price meals during the week—but weekends and school breaks can leave them without enough to eat. Backpack programs provide two-day supplemental meal kits to help fill that gap.

  • Collaborating to Make It Happen: Churches, companies, volunteer groups, and the Food Bank partner with school staff to identify students in need. On Fridays, meal kits are discreetly placed into students’ backpacks, with many programs offering extra food during holiday breaks.

  • Supporting Learning Through Nutrition: These kits include easy-to-eat foods like cereal, milk, fruit cups, pasta, and more—ensuring kids return to school on Monday ready to focus, learn, and thrive without the burden of weekend hunger.

Thousands of school-age children in North Alabama qualify for free or reduced price meals at school. These meals sustain children during the week, but what happens when students go home for the weekend? What happens during long holiday breaks? The Food Bank’s weekend backpack program continues to grow as more and more churches, companies, and nonprofits step in to meet the need.

34 Groups
80 Schools

Impact Report Story

Other ways to get involved

There are so many ways to make a difference! Explore other ways to get involved and support the fight against hunger. Every action counts.

Donate

Every dollar you donate to the Food Bank of North Alabama allows us to procure enough food for almost 5 meals.

Share on social media

Help us spread the word! Share our food drive on social media and make a bigger impact by sharing on social media.

Volunteer

Lend a hand, make a difference! Sign up to volunteer and be a part of something great.

Host a food drive

Be a hero in your community, host a food drive! It’s easy to start and makes a big impact.

Need Assistance?

The Food Bank distributes food donations to relief organizations throughout the 11 counties we serve. Click below to find a agency partner near you.

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