“Snack Pack” program aims to help feed students whose parent won't cook

12/18/2014

Anyone who has recieved food stamps and WIC knows that the amount given is far more than enough to feed their family. That is of course if they can get away from the TV long enough to prepare home-cooked meals...

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The project is called "Snack Pack" and it’s to help children whose main sources of nutrition is the meals served at school each day.

Brownsville ISD, the United Way of Southern Cameron County and other local agencies and organizations joined together to provide the packs.

Volunteers put them together at the Brownsville ISD food and nutrition services department warehouse Tuesday morning.

Each bag includes items like peanut butter, pudding cups and cereal packages.

Organizers said many students depend on the school cafeteria for their weekly meals because there is not enough to eat at home.

"Behind the concept of the program is that each of these items can be prepared by a small child without the assistance of an adult," Vanessa Mancha said.

During the past year the community has seen an increase in the number of families seeking assistance for food.

When this project was first developed it aimed for 200 bags, but Mancha said this year, they received a request for 600 students.

Organizers still need the community's help and are accepting donations.

If you'd like to help, you can contact food and nutrition services at (956) 548-8450.

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