Local organizations team up to make sure kids are fed on weekends

One local organization is teaming up with the Boys and Girls Club to make sure no child goes hungry on the weekends.

Blessings in a Backpack is giving out “weekend” meals to about 1,500 students.

With schools closed, the executive director of Blessings in a Backpack says it’s been harder to make sure students have food over the weekend,

“As I was driving here, we’ve been getting calls for the whole region that the need is just getting bigger and we’re not in enough places,” said Cecilia St. Arnold.

But Friday, the organization teamed up with the Boys and Girls Club of Lee County.

“For now we can’t forget that kids are a part of this. We have to acknowledge them and serve them exactly where they are,” said the club’s chief executive officer, Shannon Lane.

As this location handed out Lee County School’s grab ‘n go meals, the kids get a little extra.

I’m very grateful, very grateful,” said parent Tabitha Elliot.

Blessings in a Backpack joined in, sending those kids home with more food.

“I feel better when I actually see the kids getting the meals,” St. Arnold said.

Two breakfasts and lunches for the weekend were provided, helping parents and students get through these tough times.

“It helps all of our households that are in need and if we’re not in need, still, it’s helpful,” Elliot said.

Blessings in a Backpack hands out food for kids for the weekends every Friday at three different Boys and Girls locations as well as interfaith charities and Eva’s Closet.

St. Arnold says you don’t need to sign up, you can just come by.

For those locations, click here.