This year’s philanthropy is the Blessings in a Backpack for District 58, whose mission is to close the weekend hunger gap for almost 200 kids in Downers Grove! Students in all 13 buildings of District 58 rely on the school’s free and reduced-price meal program to provide the nourishment they need to learn and grow. A group of 17 local community volunteers are committed to feeding them on the weekends and during school vacations or other non-attendance days. As part of a national organization, they have access to dietitian approved pre-packed supplies which include well-known brands, such as Kellogg’s, in more nutrition-forward formulations. Distribution of these bags is accomplished in collaboration with school staff in a discrete manner. Working together, we all make a difference in our community starting at 3 p.m. every Friday during the school year!

For information on more events like this, check out our roundup of 5K Races and Kids’ Fun Runs.