The Newman’s Own Foundation announced in June that they would support the Vermont Foodbank’s youth programs, specifically the BackPack Program and School Food Pantry To-Go, with a gift of $45,000.

The Vermont Foodbank’s youth food programs assist struggling, food-insecure, Vermont families with their weekend food needs during the school year. The BackPack Program provides nutritious packaged food to children at 25 schools; the School Food Pantry To-Go offers fresh produce at 4 schools.

“We couldn’t be more grateful to the Newman’s Own Foundation for their support of our youth programs,” said John Sayles, Vermont Foodbank CEO. “Last year the Foodbank provided food to nearly 34,000 children under the age of 18. And the funds provided by the Newman’s Own Foundation will help us to continue and expand our work of ensuring that no child or family in Vermont goes hungry.”

For the 2015-16 school year, the BackPack Program will deliver nearly 115,000 pounds of food to 1,100 students and their families weekly. School Food Pantry program will provide an additional 180,000 pounds of fresh fruits and vegetables to an average of 550 families twice monthly.

“Our youth programs aim to improve the attentiveness and productivity, health and wellness, and overall food security of the participants,” said Jen Hutchinson, youth programs manager at the Vermont Foodbank.

“Donations and support of foundations like Newman’s Own allow us to provide our youth programs at no cost to the schools where they operate. We are able to impact the lives of more children because of their support.”

Join Newman’s Own in supporting Vermont Foodbank youth programs: make a gift or get involved today!