The Power Packs Project Mission is to partner with eligible families to provide food and nutritional education so that families are empowered and children thrive. A long term solution to hunger is education which is a vital component to the goal of “changing behavior” among participating families.
Each week this program approaches that goal by providing children and their families nutritious meals during the weekend. How is this done? By supplying a low-cost recipe and the ingredients with encouragement to prepare the meal together. The cost of the meal is noted so families can see they can provide meals for less than the cost of fast food. Staple items like peanut butter and cereal are also included. The weekly pack also contains “tip sheets” such as “Smart Shopping”, “Emergency Meals”, “About Expiration and Best Used By Dates” and information about beneficial programs and services.
The Power Packs Project began in 2005 with distribution from an individual’s kitchen to students at Carter & MacRae Elementary in the School District of Lancaster. Every year has brought growth to the program which now serves 11 school districts in Lancaster County. The programs are run by volunteers with funding by donations. The Donegal Affiliate is planning to begin distribution for their pilot project on March 5, 2015 to registered students and their families in Donegal Primary School.
Family units are very different today with many struggling between placing food on the table or paying rent and utilities. Children have been arriving at school Monday mornings hungry because access to meals over the weekend are sometimes difficult. A Power Packs Food Bag given to a child each week will ensure good physical health, behavior, development and school performance in significant and long-lasting ways.
If you feel called to be a part of this program, the community contact is Elayne Olson (c)669-3897 or [email protected]. “Like” the “Power Packs Project – Donegal Affiliate” on Facebook to stay up-to-date.