Blessings in a Backpack prepares for annual Turkey Tote drive

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WPTA) - The government shutdown may be over, but its ripple effects are still being felt in Fort Wayne, especially by the families who already suffer from food insecurity.

Leaders with Blessings in a Backpack are preparing for their annual Turkey Totes Drive.

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Thursday, volunteers packed more than 3,000 bags, an effort made possible in part by a $25,000 grant from the AEP Foundation.

Blessings in a Backpack Executive Director Jama Ross says half of local households weren’t sure they could afford Thanksgiving dinner this year, and more than 70% of Fort Wayne Community Schools’ families are food insecure.

Ross says the goal has always been to let children know they are valued, supported, and never forgotten, even during times of uncertainty.

That’s why Ross says it’s extremely important that each bag has a handwritten note with positive affirmations.

“Every item, we like to think about if a kid was going to have their own little Thanksgiving meal, what would it look like,” Ross says.

In each bag, you’ll find mac and cheese, granola bars, fruit snacks, chips, and more.

Ross says the effort wouldn’t have been possible without community support and the $25,000 donation from the AEP Foundation.

With support like this, Blessings in a Backpack can keep making a difference, one child, one meal, and one holiday at a time.

Ross says all 3,350 Turkey Totes will be sent to 8 FWCS schools next week.

To learn more, donate, or support Blessings in a Backpack, click here.

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