May is Hunger Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on the critical issue of food insecurity that affects millions of Americans, including children in our own community. At Food Backpack for Kids (FBFK), we are on a mission to ensure that no child in Coastal Lane County goes hungry. With nearly one in three children in Oregon facing hunger, the work we do has never been more important.
This month, we invite you to join us in recognizing the reality of child hunger and learning how you can be part of the solution. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of children who need us most.
The Reality of Child Hunger in Oregon
Hunger is a silent crisis that impacts children in profound ways. In Oregon, nearly one in three children struggles with hunger. This means that thousands of kids are going to bed with empty stomachs, unable to focus on school, play, or simply enjoy their childhood. For families in rural areas like Florence and Mapleton, the challenges of accessing nutritious food are even greater due to limited resources and geographic isolation.
The effects of hunger on children are far-reaching. It affects their physical growth, cognitive development, and emotional well-being. Hungry children are more likely to experience health problems, struggle academically, and face social challenges. At FBFK, we believe that no child should have to endure these hardships.
How FBFK is Making an Impact
Food Backpack for Kids is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization based in Florence, Oregon, dedicated to combating child hunger. Every week, we provide assistance to over 130 children through our Kid-Friendly School-based Program. Our approach is simple yet impactful: we discreetly distribute food to children in need, ensuring they have enough to eat over the weekend when school meals are unavailable.
Volunteer Power:
Our organization is entirely volunteer-run, with over 40 dedicated individuals contributing their time and energy each week. From packing food bags to coordinating distributions, our volunteers are the heart of FBFK.
Community Support:
Thanks to the generosity of local businesses, organizations, and individuals, we are able to purchase additional food items and supplies. Every dollar donated goes directly toward feeding children in our community.
Discreet Distribution:
We work closely with local schools to identify children in need and distribute food bags discreetly. This ensures that no child feels singled out or stigmatized for receiving assistance.
Hunger Awareness Month: Why It Matters
Hunger Awareness Month is an opportunity to educate our community about the realities of food insecurity and inspire collective action. While hunger is a global issue, it’s also a local one—and we all have a role to play in addressing it.
This May, as we observe Hunger Awareness Month, we want to highlight the importance of supporting programs like FBFK. Hunger doesn’t take a break, and neither do we.
How You Can Help
Fighting child hunger is a community effort, and there are many ways you can get involved:
Donate:
Every bit helps! Your generosity allows us to provide consistent support to children in need. 100% of money donated goes directly to purchasing food for the children.
Volunteer:
Join our team of passionate volunteers! From packing food bags to organizing, there’s a role for everyone.
Spread the Word:
Share our mission with your friends, family, and colleagues. Raising awareness is a powerful way to inspire action and grow our impact.
Together, We Can End Child Hunger
At Food Backpack for Kids, we believe that no child should have to worry about where their next meal is coming from. Hunger Awareness Month is a reminder that we all have the power to make a difference, whether it’s through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word.
This May, let’s come together as a community to fight child hunger and ensure that every child in Coastal Lane County has the nourishment they need to thrive. Together, we can create a brighter future—one meal at a time.