Giving Some Guilford County Children BackPacks Full of Hope

One area non-profit wants to increase public awareness of child hunger in Guilford County.Tuesday, May 13, BackPack Beginnings will host an open house for the public to provide more information on their four programs. They are weekend food back packs for nutritionally at-risk head start and elementary school children, free food pantries in middle schools, a free children's clothing pantry and comfort backpacks for children who have been abused, neglected or are homeless. They're also given to refugee children.

Parker White, the founder and executive director, says the group is another level of support for struggling children and their families. “A lot of these children may come from single parent families and that parent is doing the best they can but they may need some extra help," explains White. "There are children who are going through traumatic situations and need extra support. They are given the basic necessities, so they can learn and make a better life for themselves.”

In 2010, White began BackPack Beginnings in her dining room to give backpacks filled with food to children who often go hungry during the weekend. To date, the group has fed 2,500 children. According to White, in Guilford County, 43,000 children qualify for free or reduced priced school lunch.

This group is completely run by volunteers. They will also be thanked during the open house event, which runs from 5-7 p.m. Tuesday, May 13. It will be at the group's main office, 3714 Alliance Drive, Suite 105 in Greensboro. Fresh Market is one of BackPack Beginnings community partners. The company will provide food and door prizes.