Snack in a Backpack volunteers packed their 20,000th meal of the 2019-2020 school year Wednesday, November 20.
Volunteer Mike Nunnally described the packing day stating, “It’s absolutely stunning. The week before Thanksgiving and we have 110%. It’s amazing.”
“It’s really gratifying,” Director Debby Beck said when asked what it was like to hit the milestone.
According to Feeding America 2019 statistics, Fannin County has a Food Insecurity Rate of 19.9% among children.
“There is a need,” Beck said. “We forget that there’s a real need and we may not see that need because it’s kind of in the background of Blue Ridge life or in other parts of Fannin County. I run into people all the time, where once they know what I’m doing they say, “Oh, my grandchildren get the bags.’ So a lot more people are getting bags and are familiar with the program. I run into so many people and they just really are so grateful so we’re really pleased.”
Snack in a Backpack volunteers are already looking toward their annual Bringin’ the Blues to Blue Ridge event February 22 and are looking for sponsors. Tickets are $65 and include appetizers, dinner and dessert.
More information can be found by calling 706-851-8174 or emailing backpackfannin@gmail.com.