OUR STORY
The Backpack Program is a national program created through Feeding America. There are Backpack Programs all across the country, but one did not exist in Coeur d'Alene until November 2010.
Our Start
Lakes Middle School agreed to be the program's pilot school, so in the fall of 2010, 16 very excited students were part of our very first distribution. That number quickly increased. By the end of the 2010-2011 school year, we were serving 30 students in two different schools. With the help of counselors and volunteers, the program was receiving a positive welcome into the community.
Ongoing Success
The facts are surprising: close to 50% of CDA School District families fall below the poverty line, resulting in almost 4,000 students who qualify for free or reduced breakfast and lunch through the National School Lunch Program.
Our goal has been to expand the program to feed as many children as possible. With the overwhelming support from our community, we have been able to do just that. For the 2011-2012 school year we were serving 4 schools and over 100 students. As we entered into 2012, we were happily serving 160 kids. Our program has continued to grow- we are entering the 2019-2022/23 year serving over 550 students each week.
STAFF DIRECTORY
We hope to continue expanding and reaching even more students in Coeur d'Alene and beyond...with your support: WE CAN!
Sarah Bradbury
Director
sarah@cdabackpackprogram.org
208-869-6547
Bree Brix
Secretary
Jennifer Branstetter
Fundraiser Director
Jennifercbranstetter@gmail.com
402-541-7221
Additional Members
Angee Murrillo, Jacob Burrows, Jackie Daly, Leza Moyer, Carla Zimmerman
Heather Polombo
Treasurer