Backpack Friends Tackles Food Insecurity as Shutdown Persists

As the federal government shutdown continues, millions of families across the United States are grappling with uncertainty regarding food assistance benefits such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). In Central Texas, the nonprofit organization Backpack Friends is stepping in to address rising food insecurity among children.

Local Initiative Expands to Meet Growing Needs

Based in Austin, Backpack Friends provides ready-to-eat meals and snacks to ensure that children do not go hungry over the weekends. The organization collaborates with school counselors who identify the most vulnerable students. Volunteers then pack meals to be distributed before the end of each school week.

Tom Cottar, the CEO and co-founder of Backpack Friends, noted a significant increase in requests for assistance since the onset of the shutdown. “My inbox is getting slammed with families who are really struggling,” Cottar stated. The rising demand is compounded by supply chain challenges and dwindling donations, making it increasingly difficult for the organization to keep pace.

“For those of us in the nonprofit space who are trying to alleviate food insecurity, it’s a double whammy,” Cottar explained. “Our need is escalating, while donor fatigue is setting in across all of our organizations.” What began as a local effort to support just 12 children has now expanded to serve over 185,000 youth since its inception.

Community Support Vital for Future Efforts

Currently, Backpack Friends provides food assistance to approximately 2,000 children each month. The organization’s funding primarily relies on individual donations, small grants, and partnerships within the community. As the shutdown drags on, they are appealing for continued support to sustain their efforts.

The organization emphasizes that even modest contributions, such as granola bars and peanut butter, can significantly impact the lives of children in need. “Every little bit helps keep our children fed,” Cottar affirmed.

As families face increasing uncertainty, the work of Backpack Friends highlights the importance of local initiatives in addressing food insecurity. The organization remains committed to its mission of ensuring that no child goes hungry, even as challenges mount.