Delivering More than Backpacks

People involved in all kinds of mission work often comment about the positive impact their service has on their own perspective, heart, and relationship with God. They set out to serve with a genuine desire to help others, but find themselves forever changed by the very people they seek to help! This is how those serving through Backpack Blessings feel about our friends at Fair Oaks Elementary, who never cease to amaze us with their grateful attitudes and loving hearts.

While our Blue Bags always contain food staples that help meet the basic nutritional needs of the children, we often include fun items and treats to brighten their day. Items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, and books help us build relationships with the kids and let them know how special they are to us. During one of our recent visits to Fair Oaks, we surprised our friends with Girl Scout cookies–and what a hit they were!  When we returned the following Friday, the kids presented us with a surprise of their own. During the week, they took the time to write the sweetest thank you notes to tell us how much they enjoyed the Girl Scout cookies. But they are thankful for so much more than cookies. They are thankful for the Blue Bags that provide kid-friendly food they can count on. They are thankful for the help their families receive. Most of all, they are thankful for the familiar faces who visit them every Friday morning and give them words of encouragement.

At Backpack Blessings, our mission is more than just providing food to children who are at risk of being hungry during the weekend. We seek to demonstrate Christ’s love by building strong relationships with the children, teachers, staff, and families at Fair Oaks. In doing so, our hearts are changed by the smiles and hugs we receive every Friday. We are just as excited to see our friends as they are to see us!