Growing Up Blessings: MelRiyah

Growing up hungry, MelRiyah faced challenges in focusing on school and constantly worrying about where her next meal would come from. Amidst these struggles, Blessings in a Backpack became something she could rely on.

For MelRiyah and many others, Blessings in a Backpack goes beyond nourishment; it ensures weekends are free from hunger.

“If we didn’t have any food at home, we’d look forward to knowing where our next meal was coming from,” she gratefully expresses.

Today, MelRiyah’s commitment to studying social work in college is fueled by a desire to give back to the community that once lifted her up.

Fifteen years ago, Blessings in a Backpack became a national nonprofit. Since then, more than 1 million children, including MelRiyah, have been given the gift of hunger-free weekends due to the nourishment Blessings provides.