PEP Foundation Provides Weekend Food For Putnam School Children

PEP Foundation offers weekend food for Putnam students experiencing food scarcity.

Putnam County Education Foundation Director Katelyn Steakley said the PEP Backpack Program exists to makes sure students are fed on weekends when school is not in session.  She said the program fed some 740 children last year.

“At the end of the day our goal as an organization is that every kid here in Putnam County would have a fulfilling life,” Steakley said. “And that starts with us meeting basic needs while kids are being educated so they can show up ready to learn.”

Steakley said that students receive weekly bags of food in their backpack on Friday afternoon if they’re enrolled in the program. She said this gives them some extra items to eat on the weekend in case their family is struggling with food insecurity.

Steakly said state data shows that one in five kids suffer with food insecurity. She said Putnam County fits pretty well into those statistics.

“We are looking for those who would be interested in helping partner with us financially this year to help us make the program self-sustaining,” Steakley said.

Steakley said this year they are encouraging local community members to give online to the program. She said part of the giving also includes church programs and volunteers.

“And if you’re looking for volunteer opportunities, the website is also a great way to reach out to us,” Steakley said.