Today we get another look at the backpack program. It started in July 2008 with 300 children. The program has grown now to 1100 children at schools in a five county area. Food Finders Food Bank Director Katy Bunder said about 500 of those children are from Lafayette schools. We first did a story about the program in November. After our story aired, donations came into Miami Elementary School and Logan's Roadhouse employees agreed to sponsor children at Oakland Elementary School. The children I spoke with at Oakland said they thought it was fun to be in the program and that it really helped their families. Some children told us their parents were looking for jobs. Other children said they were part of a big family--5 to 8 members.
If you are interested in learning more about the backpack program or sponsoring a school, contact Food Finders Food Bank. The number is (765) 471-0062. Bunder said there are still hundreds of children in our community who could benefit from the program.
