A food drive to support the Backpack Initiative began Tuesday in the Shaler Area School District and will run through Nov. 14.
The Shaler Area Backpack Initiative was created in 2014 to help district students in need of weekend food supplies.
Each family participating in the program receives a bag packed with child-friendly, single-serving snacks and easily prepared meals each Friday.
The program distributes food to about 130 children and also makes food and hygiene items available to students. It is funded entirely from donations.
Hygiene items such as deodorant, mouthwash and mints, feminine hygiene supplies, lip balm, combs and ponytail holders are suggested donations in addition to various food items for breakfast, meals, snacks and treats.
Donations can be dropped off at any of the school buildings and Ruckus Cafe, 1707 Babcock Blvd., in Shaler.
The program is open to students enrolled in kindergarten through 12th grade in the Shaler Area School District, and there are no eligibility requirements.
Families in need can sign up for the Backpack Initiative online.
