4/5/12:
The Backpack Buddies of East Central (BPBEC) program is intended to meet the nutritional needs of children during nonschool hours, specifically weekends. The program serves students in grades K-5. Children and their families are identified by East Central elementary schools as those in need of supplemental food assistance. BPBEC is a referral based program. Families complete a one-page application identifying all persons in the household and begin receiving food.
What do students or families receive?
Each week children are given a bag that is filled with non-perishable food that can be used to meet their weekend nutritional needs. A typical bag, depending upon inventory, may contain: a protein (such as beans, soup, beef stew, and/or peanut butter), canned fruits (such as peaches, pears, pineapples, etc.) and miscellaneous items, such as individual wrapped fruit juice, crackers, multigrain bars, individual boxes of cereal, pudding cups, etc. The food will include preferably pop-top containers that will require little to no cooking.
Where does the food come from?
Food is obtained from local area churches, donations and by purchases. The pantry is located at Temple Baptist Church.
