The Milbank Area Backpack Program will extend into summer this year for the first time. “We invite people to take advantage of this opportunity... Backpack Program Extends Services Into Summer

_DSC0006 (5)The Milbank Area Backpack Program will extend into summer this year for the first time. “We invite people to take advantage of this opportunity just as they do during the school year,” stated coordinator Jenn Falk. “Even if we help one family, it’s a good thing.”

A three-day supply of food for each child in the home will be available every week throughout the summer. Children do not have to be school-age to participate.

Food will be picked up each week at Central United Methodist Church in Milbank. Distribution days are Tuesdays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. or Thursdays from 5 to 7 p.m. Families choose one day or the other to pick up their supply. The program strives for confidentiality, but due to the nature of the pickup times, complete anonymity will not be possible.

Families who are currently enrolled in the program will not have a break in their service between this school year and the summer program. “These families and families newly enrolled in the summer program will continue to receive food until the school program begins in September after Labor Day.”

The same types of food will be offered as with the school program. Food is purchased locally through Berens Warehouse Groceries at a cost of approximately $6 per child per week. Sandy MacMillian will take over the ordering of the food for the summer program from Delwin Cross who helps run the school-year program. Volunteer groups will pack the food once per month. Anyone seeking to volunteer in the packing please contact Sandy at 432-4766.

Enrollment forms were sent home with students in the Milbank schools and surrounding areas and local preschools. Forms can also be picked up at Central United Methodist Church or through Inter-Lakes Community Action and Heather Rise at the Grant County Courthouse. Enrollment forms are due as soon as possible and can be returned to Central United Methodist Church at 201 S 5th St in Milbank. For additional information or questions, please contact Sandy at 432-4766.

The program is grateful for monetary donations and grocery bags are always needed. The summer campaign to raise money for the next school year will run from May through August. A Zumba event is being planned to help fund the summer program.

Staff Writer

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