We began this outreach five years ago with three schools. We now serve Aldie Elementary and Banneker Elementary Schools.

This year we are packing 29 bags per week to provide food for four weekend meals. Two breakfasts and two lunches. We place twelve different items into one gallon zip lock bags ranging from milk and juice to meat, fruit, vegetables and snacks. The number of participants has risen each year that we have been involved in this ministry.

Students who receive these meals are identified by their local school. They do not have to be eligible for free or reduced-price lunch to be in the program.

It costs us anywhere form $5.52 to $6.70 per bag depending on the items we pack each week. So, our weekly expenses range from $110.00 to $288.00 per week or $4,000 to $4,800 per school year at this time. 

We do several fundraisers throughout the year and look for support both within our congregation and outside our church doors. The Town of Middleburg has also provided us with funds from their “Health Center Rent” charitable gifts program.

Each year our big event is Christmas in Middleburg. This is when we request donations for hot cider, hot chocolate or hot coffee from those attending the festivities. Stop by if you are in town and say hello and perhaps provide a donation.

If you are not in town but would like to support this program, simply mail a check to Middleburg United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 284, Middleburg, VA 20118 with Back Pack Buddies in the memo line.

We appreciate your support.