March is a month of renewal and reflection, as we welcome the early signs of spring and take time to recognize the importance of nourishing our communities. For Food Backpack for Kids (FBFK), March is an especially meaningful month as it aligns with two national awareness campaigns that resonate deeply with our mission to combat child hunger: National School Breakfast Week and National CACFP Week.
At FBFK, we believe that no child should face the uncertainty of hunger. Nearly one in three children in Oregon struggles with food insecurity, and our organization is dedicated to addressing this challenge head-on. Through our Kid-Friendly School-based Program, we provide over 130 children each week with nutritious food to sustain them over the weekend. This March, we honor the national initiatives that amplify the importance of child nutrition and reflect on how they inspire our work in Florence, Mapleton, and the greater Coastal Lane County area.
National School Breakfast Week: March 3–7, 2025
National School Breakfast Week shines a spotlight on the critical role that school breakfast programs play in ensuring children start their day with the fuel they need to succeed. For many children, school meals are their primary source of nutrition, serving as a vital safety net against hunger. Research has consistently shown that children who eat a healthy breakfast are better equipped to focus, learn, and perform academically.
At FBFK, we complement the efforts of school breakfast programs by addressing the gap that exists over weekends. While schools provide meals during the week, weekends can be an especially vulnerable time for children who rely on school meals. Our discreet food distribution program ensures that children have access to nourishing meals even when school is not in session, supporting their overall well-being and academic success.
As we celebrate National School Breakfast Week, we encourage our community to reflect on the importance of school meal programs and consider how we can all contribute to ensuring children have access to consistent, nutritious food. Whether it’s through volunteering, donating, or spreading awareness, every action makes a difference.
National CACFP Week: March 10–16, 2025
The Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) is another vital initiative recognized in March. National CACFP Week highlights the impact of this federal program, which provides funding to ensure children and adults in care settings receive nutritious meals and snacks. CACFP supports a wide range of programs, including afterschool care, emergency shelters, and child care centers, all of which play an essential role in building food security.
While FBFK operates independently of CACFP funding, our mission aligns closely with its goals. Like CACFP, we aim to bridge the gap for children who might otherwise go hungry, ensuring that they have access to the nourishment they need to thrive. We are inspired by the work of CACFP and are proud to stand alongside organizations nationwide that are committed to feeding those in need.
A Call to Action: How You Can Help
As we celebrate these national awareness days, we invite you to join us in making a tangible impact in our community. Here are a few ways you can support FBFK this March:
Volunteer Your Time: Over 40 volunteers contribute to our mission each week, helping with food purchasing, packaging, and distribution. We are always in need of dedicated individuals who share our passion for fighting hunger.
Donate Resources: Your financial contributions allow us to purchase food and supplies to sustain our program. Every dollar makes a difference in the lives of the children we serve.
Spread Awareness: Share our mission with your friends, family, and colleagues. By raising awareness about child hunger and the work of FBFK, you can help us reach more supporters and expand our impact.
Raise Awareness and Funds: Organize a campaign or event to raise awareness and money for Food Backpack for Kids. Every contribution helps us ensure no child in our community goes hungry.
Looking Ahead: Spring and Beyond
As we move through March and into spring, we remain steadfast in our commitment to feeding young children in need. The challenges of food insecurity are ongoing, but so is our determination to make a difference. With the support of our community, we can continue to provide hope and nourishment to the children of Coastal Lane County.
Together, we can honor the spirit of National School Breakfast Week and National CACFP Week by taking action to combat hunger and support the well-being of our youngest neighbors. Thank you for standing with us in this mission.