Child Hunger Programs

Backpack Program

This program addresses the needs of school children at chronic risk for hunger by providing backpacks of food for consumption during non-school times. Backpacks are stocked with 10-12 nutritious, child-friendly, easy-to-prepare items from each of the food groups and are distributed discreetly on Fridays or the last day before a school break. Currently, 1,536 children at 19 schools are receiving backpacks weekly and funding is being sought to expand this program.

9-A-Day the Head Start Way

9-A-Day refers to the recommended number of fruits and vegetables the average person should consume daily. Through this program, schools receive produce, nutritious snacks and meals prepared by Head Start food staff. Additionally, the LSU Agricultural Center provides preschool nutrition curriculum materials and training, and surveys the impact of the program on the young children it serves. Currently, 1,247 students, caregivers and staff are served by 9-A-Day.

For more information on the Backpack Program or 9-A-Day the Head Start Way, contact Tanya O'Reilly, Programs Manager at 504.729.2842.

Summer Feeding Program

Second Harvest Food Bank launched a summer feeding program in 2010 to address child hunger during the months when children are out of school and left undernourished and hungry.  In the 1st year, the program provided 19,019 meals at 5 sites across the New Orleans area.  In 2011, the Summer Feeding program increased to 35 sites and provided a total of 101,525 meals.   For more information on the Summer Feeding program, please click here.