Do More 24 Delaware kick-off event spotlights backpack program at Delaware Food Bank

MILFORD, Del. – “As a mom, the thought of kids not having food over the weekend just breaks my heart,” Food Bank of Delaware’s Kim Turner said.

That’s where the Food Bank of Delaware’s Backpack Program is stepping in. The goal is to help curb food insecurity for children in Kent and Sussex Counties. “We’re sending more than 8,000 bags to kids up and down the state who are at schools or daycares to brings those bags home so that they have enough food over the weekend,” Turner said.

Tuesday, food bank staff and community volunteers packed upwards of 1,000 bags for the program as a kick-off celebration for Do More 24 Delaware. The online campaign stands as the biggest day of giving for nonprofits serving communities across the first state.

The food bank is also one of the participating nonprofits and hope to raise $37,000 to keep the backpack program alive.

Do More 24 Delaware is sponsored by The United Way of Delaware and Spur Impacts. “Last year, we had over 500 nonprofits and collectively raised over $2.3 million,” Do More 24 Delaware Team Lead Tierra Fair said.  “Our goal this year isn’t really about the dollar amount, although we want to continue growing that, but it’s more about raising more donors and awareness.”

With more than 500 nonprofits a part of this year’s fundraising marathon, Fair told us that each Delawarean has been impacted by one of these nonprofits. She added at the campaign is a way to pay it forward. “Whether its$5, $20, or $5 to 10 different nonprofits, whatever you choose to do it matters and we want you to do it,” she said.

The Food Bank of Delaware said that for every $300 donated, they can provide a kid with enough food for an entire year.  With just a $25 donation, FBDE can provide a child with food for up to a month.

Do More 24 Delaware will kick off Thursday, March 7th at 6:00 p.m.

There’s $350,000 worth of prizes and matching funds available for participating nonprofits.