Programs

Packing Food and Holiday Cheer

Packing Food and Holiday Cheer
Santa Claus joined Jessica Wallace, a contender for Miss Kentucky, and the Louisville Blessings in a Backpack staff at Engelhard Elementary the Friday before winter break 2015. Together, they packed two weeks worth of food for children to take home. Santa handed out candy canes and the occasional hug.

Amongst all the joy and excitement, a boy approached Santa with a tough and troubling question. “Why didn’t you come to my house last year?” he asked.
 
Santa visits EngelhardSanta was at a loss for words. He comforted the boy by patting his back and giving him a candy cane. “I didn’t know how to respond,” Santa said.
 
Blessings staff alerted teachers of the question and later learned of a generous donation of presents that was made to the school the following Monday.

We may never know if Santa brought the boy presents, but we do know, because of Blessings in a Backpack, he had food to eat over the long winter break.
 
At Blessings in a Backpack, we not only feed children facing food insecurity, but we let children know that their community cares about them. To learn how you can start a program at a school near you, click here.