BackPack program helps Minden Elementary children

Ginger Easley made a difference for 17 of Minden Elementary School's neediest children.

Last December, she helped implement BackPack Buddies, a program that distributes backpacks filled with nutritious, nonperishable food to disadvantaged students.

After hearing about the success of a similar program at Fritsch Elementary School in Carson City, Easley began discussions with Minden Elementary School Principal Ken Stoll to see if there was a need for such a service at the school.

"I realized that without the support of Mr. Stoll and Mrs. Garcia, the school counselor, this program wouldn't work. They were instrumental in identifying the student participants and generating enthusiasm among the teachers," said Easley.

Several Carson Valley grocery stores were donating food on a weekly basis including Raley's, Sierra Nevada Trading Company, Scolari's, Trader Joe's and a local bakery.

In addition, Smith's, Carson Valley Super Center Wal-Mart and Target have joined parents and local businesses in making financial contributions to BackPack Buddies.

"I feel very fortunate to live in such a generous community. The public support for our program has been incredible," said Easley.

A group of volunteers meets weekly to fill the backpacks, which are discreetly given to the students every Friday.

In addition to the weekly food allocation, the volunteers add an occasional treat to the backpacks, such as rose plants for Mother's Day gifts, personal hygiene products and games for family time.

"We've had good feedback from both parents and students regarding our BackPack Buddies program. By helping families with additional food, we are enhancing MES' caring school environment. The students in turn have a stronger bond toward the school. We have seen a dramatic improvement in the participants' attendance since we implemented the program," said Mary Garcia, school counselor.

The volunteers are currently scheduling dates throughout the summer, where backpacks will be available for pickup at MES for the participating families.

For more information on BackPack Buddies contact Easley at (775) 721-0828 or Garcia at (775) 782-5510.