With the start of school on the horizon, organizers of the Mercer County Backpack Program are asking the community to step up and help feed local children in need. The program provides weekend food packs to students from Pre-K through 5th grade who face food insecurity at home—and funding is becoming increasingly critical.
“This past year, we averaged around 60 kids a week, and it costs $6.50 per meal per child,” said co-chair Cara Ausmus during a recent appearance on WRMJ’s Focus. “That puts our yearly budget at nearly $15,000. We’ve been fortunate so far—through donations and a few grants—but every year is a challenge.”
The program doesn’t receive regular government funding and relies entirely on the generosity of individuals, churches, and community groups. Each bag sent home on Friday contains over four pounds of food, offering a reliable weekend supplement for students who may not have enough to eat otherwise.
Ausmus says the program is about more than just food—it’s about giving kids a chance to succeed. “When children are fed, they learn better. They behave better. They thrive.”
Donations can be made by contacting Ausmus or co-chair Trudy Litwiler directly. They oversee the program as part of the local mission work. “We’re sorry it’s needed,” Ausmus said, “but we’re so thankful we’re here to help.”
With the program set to resume in mid-September, community support is needed now more than ever to make sure no child in Mercer County goes hungry over the weekend.
To help call:
Cara Ausmus 3095824416 or Trudy Litwiler 3093714123