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To the editor:
In the United States in 2021, 9 million children faced hunger. That is 1 in 8 children. When children face hunger, they are at higher risks of conditions like anemia and asthma. They are more likely to have developmental impairments, academic and behavioral problems in school, and difficulties in other social situations.
This is why the Summer Backpack Program of the Juniata County Food Pantry and similar programs are vital.
Prior to the start of the school year, the Summer Backpack Program completed its 10th season of providing lunches to eligible students residing in our county. Throughout June, July, and August 118 students registered for our program, totalling 4,600 lunches distributed.
Students who had completed grades K-8 were eligible to participate. Each lunch consists of an entrée, a fruit, a snack, and either a juice box or milk. Students could come to the pantry once during each of the three summer months to receive a box of 20 lunches. When extra items were offered to pantry clients, they were given to our students as well. During August, school supplies were also available due to the kindness of generous supporters of our program.
During this difficult economic time, we are especially grateful to the many charitable donors who provided us with their financial support, specific food items for the program, and school supplies. Having community commitment is such a blessing.
My appreciation is extended to the following who provided valuable financial support and/or donations of food and/or school supplies throughout the summer: Westminster United Presbyterian Church Sunday School, Jermal Mobley, Locust Run United Methodist Church, Pine Grove and McAlisterville United Methodist Churches' S.H.A.R.E Committee, Sandra Miller, Janette Gentry, Brenda Clark, East Salem United Methodist Church, Tom and Marge Noerr, McAlisterville United Methodist Church, John and Musiedora Pyle, William Alton Lauver, Messiah Lutheran Church, Deb Yingling, Laurie Kepner, Aldersgate United Methodist Church Vacation Bible School, United Church of God, and many anonymous donors.
Additionally, many volunteers donated time in registering students and distributing food boxes to them. Your love of children and your unselfish commitment of time are deeply appreciated. Thank you, Linda Clark, Barb Geedey, Shirley Symmerman, Frances Fitzgerald, Laura Cunningham and Emma Louise. A special thank you goes to Sue Lukens for her amazing organizational skills, work ethic, and genuine enthusiasm that she brings to the program every year.
Thank you to the staff and regular volunteers of the food pantry who willingly accommodated the added traffic and scheduling necessary to support this valuable program during regular business hours. Your efforts made our mission more manageable for our clients and all students.
The goal of the Juniata County Food Pantry is to serve the residents of Juniata County.
Thank you for your continuing support.
Patricia E. Brown,
Summer Backpack
Program Coordinator
Juniata County Food Pantry