Backpack Buddy Program
The Backpack Buddies Program provides children in Cartersville City and Bartow County schools from food-insecure homes with weekend meals during the school year. Local corporations, civic groups, churches and individuals help collect and pack bags with kid-friendly non-perishable food. The children receive a backpack containing nutritious, self-serve food that will sustain them when school meals are not available. The children are selected by school principals, guidance counselors, social workers and various after school programs who identify the “at-risk” child. The program began as a pilot project in Fall 2010 serving 60 students. The program was sponsored by the Community Foundation of Northwest Georgia.
Why Do We Offer BPB?
Research shows that hungry children have poorer mental and physical health, suffer with more behavioral disorders and are less prepared to learn when they are in school. Hunger is an increasing epidemic in our county and most residents are unaware. Did you know there were an estimated 700 homeless children in Cartersville (258)/Bartow County (442)? The Backpack Buddies program is essential to help relieve hunger, which in turn will improve grades, health, school attendance and self-esteem in participating children.
Fast Facts
- Approximately 60% of children in our service area receive free or reduced price meals at school.
- $200 provides a child a backpack filled with nutritious food each weekend for the entire school year.
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We currently serve 330 students at Cartersville City Schools.