Backpack Buddies Seabrook Island (BPBSI) has been helping feed hungry children at designated schools in Charleston County since 2014. These children, identified by school counselors, typically qualify for free breakfast and lunch during the school day but are food insecure on weekends and school holidays. We provide a bag of nutritious food to fill this gap.
A typical weekend bag consists of 3 proteins, 2 breakfast items, milk, 4-6 snacks such as granola bars, 2 fruit cups and a fresh apple or orange. Currently BPBSI is providing a weekend “backpack” of food to 200 children at three schools. Our volunteers assist with weekly shopping, packing and delivering “backpacks” to schools.
When Charleston County Schools shut down last March due to Covid-19 we all were concerned for these families. Many live in households without transportation. We were able to reach many families with the help of dedicated school representatives and local churches. School opened last September with many safety restrictions but we have been able to continue our mission. Our numbers are increasing as more children are attending in-school instruction and families are still struggling financially.
Our success is possible due to the outpouring of support from our community. The average cost per child each school year is $250. Backpack Buddies Seabrook Island is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization and relies totally on donations, grants and fundraisers. We are an all-volunteer organization and pay no salaries. Contact us at: backpackbuddiesseabrookisland@gmail.com