AJ, Maka, and Camaran

Ask first graders AJ and Maka, and second grader Camaran, their favorite school day, and they will answer without hesitation. “Friday!”

Friday is the day students receive backpacks filled with nutritious food to take home for the weekend provided through support for FeedMore WNY’s BackPack Program and packed by volunteers. The children say the backpacks make them happy because they can share the food with their families, including younger siblings.

“When I eat apples and healthy food, I feel good!” AJ says.

For Miss Mason and Miss Golpl, teachers at Hamlin Park Academy, FeedMore WNY’s BackPack Program has had a powerful impact on their students and families.

“The BackPack Program has had a monumental impact for more families than ever,” says Miss Golpl. “By a child being able to bring home a backpack of food, that gives a sense of peace to the child, their family and, for that moment, takes a struggle away.”

That sense of care has helped build a stronger school community, where students feel supported and confident asking for help. Since the program was reinstated, attendance has improved especially on Fridays, when students know food will be provided that they can take home.

Miss Mason reflects that care extends beyond food. “The person who starts a hug is the person who ends the hug. Because some days a child needs just a little hug and, some days, they need to be held a little longer.”

With your support, more than backpacks are being filled at Hamlin Park Academy. So are hearts, confidence and hope for the days ahead.