KINGWOOD — When Pack the Bus for Preston County Kids began in 2011, it served 92 students, according to Tammy Laney, coordinator for Food for Preston.
By last year, that number had grown to 360.
The program provides weekend meals for children pre-K through 12th grade who are experiencing food insecurity.
“The numbers have climbed over the years,” she said. “My goal is to never turn a student away.”
In order to accommodate all those in need, the annual Pack the Bus program added to its stores Sunday, during its donations drive.
Rotary member Ray Thompson said his organization has been with the program since the beginning.
“It started with one of our members, Michelle Wolford,” he said. “We worked with Food for Preston to start the program.”
Laney said school counselors and staff enroll students into the program based on need.
“This keeps the enrollment confidential,” she explained. “Volunteers deliver the bags to the front office of the school for distribution. A school staff member or volunteers deliver the bags to the class rooms.”
She said the program now serves all 10 county schools.
Weekend food bags include two breakfasts (granola bar and breakfast bar), two lunches (chicken/cracker pack and tuna/cracker pack), two dinners (ravioli cup and beef stew cup) and two snacks (raisins and fruit cup).
“I’m a past school administrator,” Lion’s Club member Dave Toothman said. “I’ve seen kids come to school with no supplies. Every year, the numbers go up. This program is needed.”
He said the Lions’ club provides eye exams and glasses for students.
Thompson expressed his gratitude to Buckwheat Express and the Kingwood Volunteer Fire Department for their support.
For more information about Pack the Bus or to make a donation, contact Food for Preston, P.O. Box 1175, Kingwood, WV 26537, call 304-379-3519, or email coordinator@foodforpreston.org.
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