The Backpack Program is designed to meet the needs of hungry children at times when other resources are not available, such as weekends and school vacations. Bags are filled with food that children can take home on the weekends. The backpacks are discreetly distributed to children on the last day before the weekend or holiday vacation.

The Food Bank of Northwest Indiana also partners with area non-profits providing school based nutrition programming by sourcing food for their distributions.  Program partners have included Community Help Network’s Buddy Bags, The Boys and Girls Club of Northwest Indiana, various school districts, and local health departments.