School Backpack food program continues to grow and serve

Food Bank truck delivers on a snowy day

The Northeast Iowa Backpack Program continues to grow and serve Decorah students who might be defined as "food insecure." Every week volunteers pack bags for distribution to students in need, who then take the supplies home to be sure they have some food security through the weekend. According to an Iowa Condition of Education report in 2010, almost 30 percent of the state's students qualified for free meals, and another 8 percent qualified for reduced-price lunches – almost double the need from year 2000. Currently, about 85 students benefit from this program in Decorah.

The program began in Decorah started in March, 2011, via coordinated efforts of the Congregational Church, RSVP, the Depot, Decorah Schools, and the Decorah Faith Coalition. Judy Mallam and her daughter, Sally Hovden spearheaded the initial efforts. Currently Judy Mallam and other volunteers Sherry Schilling, Larry Schilling, Emmarene Smock, and Helen Bergan keep the program alive. Every week they deliver packed bags for distribution in all Decorah schools. Prior to distribution they pack the sacks with food products delivered by the Northeast Iowa Food Bank that is based in Waterloo. A truck from the Food Bank delivers food to the Congregational Church every two weeks. Although food products vary, the delivery this week was somewhat typical and included peanut butter, cereal, applesauce, juice, milk and pudding.

When asked how people can help support this program, Judy Mallam said that a direct contribution to the Northeast Iowa Food Bank is the way to go. Since the program is through the Food Bank, they cannot accept direct contributions of food or money. While that may seem restrictive, the reality is that there is very significant efficiency in dollars going directed to that agency – far above that of individual food contributions.  Mallam said that the recent "peanut butter drive" they recently did was done with special permission because the Food Bank was in short supply of peanut butter. The volunteer group also packs various items such as toothpaste and toiletries from donations they have been given, but they do not actively solicit funds for those items.

Parents may contact school officials at any time to sign up. Any student eligible for a reduced lunch program is eligible to participate in the Backpack Program.

 The Northeast Iowa Food Bank also serves other food pantry initiatives in the area, and is part of the national program, Feeding America. The address is: Northeast Iowa Food Bank, PO Box 2397, Waterloo, IA 50704-2397.

(click on any picture for larger image)

Congrational Church work stations

Helen Bergan, Judy Mallam, Emmarene Smock, Sherry Schilling

Storage cabinets

Gathering sacks for packing