For many children, the weekend can be a time of fun and relaxation. But for some, it can also mean facing food insecurity. That’s where the SNACK PACK PROGRAM steps in, providing a vital lifeline to students at Monroe Grade School.
Since 2021, the Snack Pack program has been quietly working to ensure that children at Monroe Grade School have access to food over the weekend. Each week, a dedicated team of volunteers gathers at the food pantry to assemble bags filled with easy-to-prepare, shelf-stable items. These packs contain two breakfast items, two lunch items, and two snack items, with items carefully chosen to provide balanced nutrition where possible. Occasionally, fresh apples or oranges are also included, adding a healthy boost.
“Rising food costs have made this one of our more expensive programs,” explains Janeece Cook, SBFP Executive Director. “But we know how important it is to address weekend hunger, and we’re committed to continuing this vital service.”
The Snack Packs are discreetly delivered to the school each week and distributed to the children as they board their buses for the weekend. This ensures that the food reaches the children who need it most, providing them with sustenance and peace of mind.
The program’s impact extends beyond the school year. During the summer months, the South Benton Food Pantry also provides Snack Packs to between 50 and 60 children participating in the Art in the Park program. This continuous support helps bridge the gap during times when school meals aren’t available.
The Snack Pack program relies on the generosity of the community to thrive. “We are incredibly grateful for the support we receive,” says Janeece Cook. “We have a couple of dedicated individuals who order specific items for us each month, like peanut butter packets, jam and jelly packets, cup of soup packets, chips, and individual packets of macaroni and cheese. These regular donations are invaluable.”
The program’s success is a testament to the power of community collaboration. From the dedicated volunteers who pack the bags each Wednesday to the generous donors who make it all possible, the Snack Pack program is a true community effort. Since the beginning of the school year, the Snack Pack program has grown from serving 60 children to 87 children, demonstrating the increasing need for this vital service and the community’s support for it. The cost to provide a child with a Snack Pack for a week is approximately $5.00-$7.50.
Looking to the future, the South Benton Food Pantry hopes to expand the program to include students at Monroe High School. This expansion would allow them to reach even more children in need and further strengthen their commitment to fighting food insecurity in our community.
How You Can Help:
The South Benton Food Pantry welcomes donations and volunteers to support the Snack Pack program. To learn more about how you can get involved, please visit www.southbentonfoodpantry.org
or contact us at 541-745-8759
or volunteers@southbentonfoodpantry.org.
Your generosity can make a real difference in the lives of local children.
HOURS & DAYS
Mon By Appointment
Tue 09:00 am – 05:00 pm
Wed 09:00 am – 05:00 pm
Thu 09:00 am – 05:00 pm
Fri By Appointment
Sat & Sun Closed
Closed on major holidays when they fall on Monday or Friday.
PANTRY HOURS
1st, 2nd, 4th and 5th Thursdays
from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m.
Tuesdays from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m.
The 3rd Thursday of each month
4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m.
Closed on major holidays
when they fall on Monday or Friday.
650 Orchard Street #396 Monroe, Oregon 97456 Phone: (541) 745-8759
info@southbentonfoodpantry.org
website by OWM Inc. – email us at johncameron988@gmail.com