Some kids across Iowa go hungry every time they leave the school building. Guthrie Center Elementary wants to help change that. Guthrie Center Elementary has recently implemented a BackPack Program to help end weekend childhood hunger.

The program, in partnership with FoodBank of Iowa provides supplementary weekend food for families in need. Students enrolled in the program receive a sack of food in their backpacks on Fridays. The program is free, confidential, and allows families to enroll or discontinue their involvement in the program at any time.

Principal Diane Flanery is astounded by the amount of children she sees going hungry and hopes the program will lead to better learning in the classroom. “If you’re not worrying about your next meal (and) if you’re full your brain can work and you can be a better learner.”

Contact the Elementary Office for more information or to enroll your child in the program.