Barrington Volunteers put “Blessings in a Backpack”

Barrington Volunteers put “Blessings in a Backpack”

Story via Barrington Hills.

Screen Shot 2017-10-27 at 10.42.52 PM

Tom and Darby Hills of Barrington Children’s Charities pose for a picture with Sunny Hill Asst. Principal Michelle Acosta.

Did you know that every Thursday morning a dedicated group of volunteers meet at Sunny Hill Elementary School to pack bags for in need District 220 students? Before Blessings in a Backpack began in Barrington, over 6 years ago, students in need were able to receive lunches and other assistance, but only while at school. This neglected at least two full days over the weekend without food support.

That’s where Blessings in a Backpack stepped in. Now before the end of each school week, students receive bags filled with nutritious food to fuel their weekends. This means when students arrive Monday morning, their bellies are full and ready to learn!

The program is largely funded by Barrington Children’s Charities but fueled by Barrington Area residents. President Martin McLaughlin was honored to join the entire Blessing’s Volunteer Team today (9/28/17) at Sunny Hill to celebrate the 2017 National Blessings in a Backpack Day. He expressed how impressed he was with the efficient operation of the program stating that “no one should underestimate a small group of volunteers working together for a great cause.”

Today, community members and volunteers packed bags full of food at Sunny Hill Elementary this morning to mark #BlessingsDay2017. Every week volunteers meet at Sunny Hill to pack bags for about 600 Barrington 220 students.