Backpack Friends Fights Food Insecurity for 2,000 Children

AUSTIN, Texas — As the ongoing federal government shutdown impacts food assistance programs like SNAP, food insecurity is rising across the nation. In Central Texas, a nonprofit organization called Backpack Friends is actively addressing this urgent issue by providing ready-to-eat meals and snacks to children in need over the weekends.

Founded in Austin, Backpack Friends operates with the assistance of local school counselors, who help identify students facing food shortages. Volunteers pack meals before the end of the school week, ensuring that children have access to nourishment during the weekends when school meals are unavailable. According to Tom Cottar, the group’s CEO and co-founder, the demand for assistance has surged since the government shutdown began.

“My inbox is getting slammed with families who are really struggling,” Cottar stated. He emphasized that the combination of increased need and ongoing supply chain issues has made it challenging to meet the growing demand. “For those of us in the nonprofit space who are trying to alleviate food insecurity, it’s a double whammy,” he said. “Our need is escalating, while donor fatigue is setting in across all of our organizations.”

Significant Growth and Community Support

What began as a local initiative to feed just 12 children has expanded significantly. Backpack Friends has now served meals to over 185,000 youth since its inception. Currently, the organization provides food for approximately 2,000 children each month, relying heavily on individual donations, small grants, and community partnerships.

As the challenges mount, Backpack Friends is calling for continued community support, particularly during this prolonged period of uncertainty. “Even simple donations — items like granola bars and peanut butter — can make a significant difference in keeping children fed,” Cottar added.

The organization emphasizes the importance of community involvement in alleviating food insecurity and ensuring that no child goes hungry. Through collaboration and support, Backpack Friends aims to continue its mission, making a positive impact in the lives of countless families across Central Texas.