According to the Feeding America website, in South Georgia, food insecurity (which is defined as “limited or inadequate access to food”) affects 1 in 5 children.
Backpack Buddies serves children who have weekend food insecurities in all 8 of the Thomas County schools.
You can love these kids in four different ways. Pack, Donate (specific items only), “Adopt,” and Pray.
PACK
We pack weekend food bags during the school year on Wednesdays from 3:30-4:00 in building 140 (aka the old school cafeteria) at the Thomas County Board of Education campus located at 200 N Pinetree BLVD. We are the second door on the left under the arched awning facing Pinetree BLVD. It has the Backpack Buddies name above the door.
DONATE
Twice a year—in August and January—we will collect school supplies and personal hygiene supplies. Items can be dropped off in specially marked bins at Thomasville First Baptist.
Please choose from the following items to donate:
School supplies
- pencils
- pens
- crayons
- glue sticks
Hygiene items
- toothpaste
- individually packed toothbrushes
- deodorant/antiperspirant
- bar soap (no liquid)
- Pod style laundry detergent (no liquid)
“ADOPT”
In December, there will be the opportunity to bless others by “adopting” a Backpack Buddies family or individual child for Christmas. Wish lists that include basic needs, as well as some toy-type items will be provided.
PRAY
Pray that these children will know that Jesus loves them and that they are not forgotten. Pray that the food given to them will not only fill their stomachs but also tender their hearts toward the love of Christ Jesus and that they will come to know the true Bread of Life.
If you need more information about this ministry, you can contact Tracy Zolt at [email protected].
Since 1994, Never Lost (previously Family Enrichment Group) has been speaking up for children without voices in the foster care system. We help children find a safe place they can call home for good.
Through our CASA Kids program, we train volunteers who are sworn in as Court Appointed Special Advocates to advocate for a child’s best interests in court.
Additionally, we have our Compass Kids program that provides resources, advocacy, and enrichment activities for children and the families they have been placed with in kinship care.
There are many ways you can get involved and help advocate for children who have experienced abuse or neglect. Your financial support, your time, and your voice are all ways to help.
If you would like more information on how you can become involved in changing a child’s story, go to www.neverlost.org.