About the Backpack Buddy program?

Many children who rely on free or reduced-priced lunches during the school year go home to meager or no meals on weekends. The Houston Food Bank’s Backpack Buddy program works to fill that gap.

On Fridays, at participating schools and other locations, children take home child-friendly, nonperishable, easily consumed and vitamin-fortified food.

The food is given to the children discreetly, to avoid inviting unwanted attention.

How to get involved:

Make a donation to Backpack Buddy through the Houston Food Bank.  Gifts of any amount are welcome.

Donate healthy, nonperishable child-friendly food.

Donate
Help support Houston Food Bank programs like Backpack Buddy!
Donate Online 

Most Needed Items for Backpack Buddy:

    Protein:
      Meat stews with vegetables
      Canned chicken or tuna
      Peanut butter
      Canned beans

    Fruits & Vegetables:
      Fruit cups packed in 100% juice
      100% fruit juice
      Canned vegetables

    Grains:
     Boxed grains, including cereal (12 - 16 oz.)
      Macaroni and cheese (low fat or regular)
      Canned pasta meals (such as Chef Boyardee)

    Healthy Snacks:
      Yogurt cereal bars
      Fruit filled cereal bars
      Granola bars
      Low fat crackers
    Low fat/low sugar cookies

    Dairy:
      Shelf-stable milk (plain or chocolate)