We are Lillian and Amanda, and we run things around here. And by "run," it is more of a limping walk, with lots of support and stops for breaks. We met when our kids were in Kindergarten at Shayne Elementary, and both have a strong desire to help our South Nashville community thrive. When the program started in 2013, there were five weeks left in school, and we didn't know how it would go. Well, it went, and in 2017, we expanded to Oliver Middle School as well.
Each weekend, we send home 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 2 snacks with each student. We usually average about 70 students per weekend, hitting an all-time high in Fall 2019 with 85, and blowing that number out with the COVID-19 school closures...currently at 110. We require no formal proof of need to sign up. You don't have to prove any income, or lack there of, you don't have to do anything other than ask. We also accept submissions from teachers, who have realized that a student may need some extra food on weekends. Each year, we meet with teachers and give some basic training on how to spot food insecurity. We are so encouraged by the support we have received from every angle with this program!
Want to contact us? Email shaynebackpack@gmail.com.