School is back in session and for most students it means it’s time to study. But for some students in DeKalb County it’s a way to get a meal. Nearly seven percent of DeKalb County students go hungry on a regular basis.

That’s where the Backpack Program comes in handy. The program started in 2004 when teachers noticed that students were coming to school hungry and reported it to the school board.

Although the program is necessary for students in need, funding for this program would not be possible without the community. The program is funded by donations from churches, grants and civic organizations such as Off the Beaten Path Studio Tour which put on Art for Kids Day this past Saturday at the DeKalb Farmer’s Market.

President of Studio Tours, Claudia Lee says, “School must be in session for the students to get the backpack. That means that the program is not available during the summer vacation unless the child attends summer school.”

Future plans for the organization are to increase revenue through advertisement.

If you are interested in contributing to the program contact Elise Driver at 615-215-2118 or email her at elisedriver@dekalbschools.net. All food should be items that are nonperishable and can be opened by a preschooler such as cheese or peanut butter crackers, beef jerky, applesauce, pudding cups, fruit cups and granola bars.