Junior League packs meals for BackPack Buddies

Since 2011, The Junior League of Birmingham has been partnering with Vineyard Family Services to help feed close to 100 students from three area elementary schools that are on the BackPack Buddies Program.

BackPack Buddies feeds public school children who are at-risk for food insecurity. All of the children are recipients of the free or reduced meal plan at their school and the program provides additional meals, snacks and drinks for the weekends and long breaks.

The counselors and other school professionals choose participants based on need and, generally, students are facing some adverse home situations such as unemployment, illness or homelessness.

Program Director Stephanie Grissom said the JLB is one of many partners that helps feed over 800 children on the program. 

“The Junior League of Birmingham deserves so much praise for its’ dedication to serving children in need. They have been an incredible partner and have enabled us to grow exponentially. We are very grateful for all that they do to help so many in our community,” Grissom said.

JLB member Sara Gaskin said, ”This is my fourth placement serving on the BackPack Buddies placement because I have enjoyed it so much. It means a lot to know I am helping children that may not have enough food on the weekends. It is such a simple way to make such a big impact. With each bag we pack, I feel like I am making a difference.”

For more information about joining The Jr. League of Birmingham, go to jlbonline.com. For more information about BackPack Buddies, go to vfsdads.com.

Submitted by Stephanie Grissom