Weekend Backpack Program
What is a Food Backpack Program?
The first backpack food program was launched in 1995 in Little Rock, Arkansas, sparked by the concern of a school nurse who noticed many students coming to her clinic tired, unwell, and struggling in class due to hunger and a lack of food at home. Seeking a solution, she partnered with the Arkansas Rice Depot, a local food bank. Together, they created the Food for Kids program, which discreetly sent food home with students in backpacks or bags to help them get through weekends when school meals weren't available.
How does it work?
Each week, Manheim Central receives deliveries of non-perishable food items from our local Central PA Food bank. These supplies are made possible through the generous support of our community sponsors and donors. Midweek, the feed is packed into backpacks, which are then sent home with students at the end of the week to help supplement their meals when school is not in session.
Why get involved?
Almost half of our student population qualifies for free or reduced-price lunches. This number has continued to grow over the past few years. Currently, we provide backpacks filled with food to around 150 students each week to help support their nutritional needs outside of school.
How can you help?
he Manheim Central School District is currently accepting monetary donations to support our backpack food program. On average, it costs about $200 to provide one child with a food backpack each weekend for the entire school year. This amount covers the cost of food and occasional small items included in the backpack throughout the year. When a community comes together, incredible things happen.
By supporting one another—whether through time, resources, or encouragement—we can help our students thrive both inside and outside the classroom. Let’s continue to build a community where every child feels supported, nourished, and empowered to succeed.
If you would like to sponsor a child, please click here to complete the form on the back page and return it with your donation. To protect student privacy, we do not disclose the identity of the child being sponsored.
Who do I contact if I have questions?
For questions or concerns, please contact:
Director of Food Services
Sara Payne, RDN, SNS,
Manheim Central School District
281 White Oak Road
Manheim, PA 17545
Office: (717) 664-8558
Email: paynes@manheimcentral.org
Executive Assistant to the Superintendent and Assistant Superintendent
Danielle Geissinger
Manheim Central School District
281 White Oak Road
Manheim, PA 17545
Office: (717) 664-8558
Email: geissingerd@manheimcentral.org