Nutritious, kid-friendly food is provided for the weekend for at-risk children in schools grade K-12 and summer meal program sites. Many of these children rely on school meals to provide breakfast and lunch during the school year. During breaks, such as weekends and holidays, many of these children go home to little or no meals. The Galveston County Food Bank’s Backpack Buddy program works to fill that gap by providing nutritious, child-friendly food for school children to take home.
Backpack Buddy
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the eligibility requirements?
A child must attend a school approved for the Backpack Buddy Program and the child must qualify for free-and-reduced breakfast and lunch. If you are not sure if your child’s school is approved for the program, you can reach out to the school counselor.
How do I register my child for the Backpack Buddy program?
If your child’s school is approved for the Backpack Buddy Program, you can register your child by reaching out to the Backpack Buddy Site Coordinator (usually the school counselor or a Communities in Schools representative).
What comes in the Backpack Buddy packs?
Each pack weighs between 7-10 pounds and contains the following food items: 2 proteins, 2 fruits, 2 vegetables, 2 healthy snacks, 1 grain, and shelf-stable milk.
How often does an eligible child receive a Backpack Buddy pack?
Packs are distributed every Friday.
How does a school register for the Backpack Buddy program?
A representative staff member from the school may apply to join the Backpack Buddy Program by visiting here. Then select “Apply to join the 2020/2021 Backpack Buddy Program”.
For questions or assistance, please email Kelly Boyer.
