What happens after the school bell rings? In-school programs are often not enough when it comes to feeding hungry children. For some children, the weekend often means no food. Luckily, a wonderful non-profit organization called kidsPACK is helping these hungry children by filling backpacks with food for children for the weekend.
There are more than 71,446 hungry homeless students in the state of Florida. During the 2014-2015 school year, kidsPACK delivered 343,482 meals to hungry children in central Florida. KidsPACK serves Hillsborough, Hardee and Polk County. USF student and president of the new club, Danielle Manz, says she just wants to feed as many children as possible. She says that the club will be raising money and collecting food to feed disadvantaged children in the area. The group was coming together about a month ago, but will officially be starting up in the fall.
The group plans to send breakfast, lunch and dinner to kids for Saturday and Sunday meals. The organization associated with USF currently has 28 members, anyone can join and nothing is mandatory, it is all volunteer based work. They plan on being at Bull Market, having give back nights, raffles and food drives. She says, they are also encouraging students to participate at schools to help pack the backpacks once the locations are announced.
"I decided to bring [the club] to USF because I would like to help raise money for this because it is such an amazing cause," Manz said. "Children are so grateful. The club wants to provide the kids with not only food, but hope, faith and reassurance."
Students can join the club through Bullsync: "kidsPACK USF." Dates for meetings and events are still being determined, however, the Bullsync and GroupMe chats can keep you informed and updated. Students interested can also join the Facebook group.
If you are not a student and would still love to help, you can donate at kidsPACK.org or directly to the club by contacting Danielle Manz. The most needed food items are Chef Boyardee Microwavable bowls, Beef Ravioli, mac and cheese, spaghetti and meatballs, chicken and rice, spaghetti-o's, applesauce and mixed fruit. For more information, you can visit the organizations website or their Facebook page.
