Operation Backpack got a boost from Westerra Homes. The local builder donated $8,100 to the program last month.
Owner Robert Noseworthy says he first learned about Operation Backpack in September, during a presentation by House of Lazarus (HOL) Executive Director Cathy Ashby. He noted he was shocked when he heard about the 154 elementary students – at that time – who were accessing the program.
Operation Backpack provides food to students who would otherwise go hungry on the weekends. Backpacks full of food are dropped off at area schools every Friday, distributed to kids in need, and then returned on Monday to be filled again.
Noseworthy explained the presentation inspired him to take action. He contacted his trades group, which typically sends gift baskets every Christmas in recognition of the business provided by Westerra homes throughout the year, and asked them to make a donation to Operation Backpack instead. Then Noseworthy matched the donations, dollar for dollar.
Westerra Homes also donates $300 of food to the HOL Food Bank every time a house is sold.
Noseworthy says the reason Operation Backpack struck a chord with him relates to his own childhood. He noted his mother raised four kids on her own and though she still managed to put food on the table, she did need help. Noseworthy explained in order to get by, they would go once a week to a fruit and vegetable wholesaler and pick up 50 pounds bags of produce destined for the landfill.
The HOL Food Bank serves people in North Grenville, South Grenville, North Dundas and South Dundas. For more information about the HOL, click here.