RIFA distributes Snack Backpacks to fight food insecurity as holidays approach

JACKSON, Tenn. — RIFA is continuing their work in the West Tennessee region as they lead and engage the community in the fight against hunger. With their Snack Backpack program, they’re able to provide for children during holiday breaks and throughout the year who are facing food insecurity.

“We base it on the school counselors and the teachers. So they give a number that they need and then they’re able to assess in different ways who needs it,” said Abby Allen, community outreach coordinator for RIFA.

This year, they were able to accomplish double the amount of their expected goal in contributions to aid the program. The LOLO Christmas show played a great role in benefiting RIFA’s Snack Backpack ministry this month.

“Whenever there is going to be a break with school, like we did for Thanksgiving as well, we send double for the kids so instead of receiving one Snack Backpack, they receive two so that is something that we do every year,” said Allen.

In addition to over 700 Snack Backpacks provided, they were also able to donate groceries to over 200 families this week for Christmas.

One student leaves a note saying:

“RIFA thank you for everything you do for us, you always take care of us. We appreciate everything you do for us! We love you , I love you, everybody loves you. You are trapped in my heart and soul RIFA”

“We don’t realize just the amount of food insecurity that is in the community. So I feel like, to me, it’s just being able to provide that need,” said Allen.

According to Feeding America, 24.3% of children in Madison County are food insecure. United Way of West Tennessee reports that 48% of all households in Jackson live in poverty or earn just above the federal poverty level but not enough to make ends meet.

“It means more than I can say that we have folks who believe in the mission of RIFA and what we do and to stand in the gap with us,” said Denice Walton, director of development for RIFA.

RIFA’s soup kitchen will be open throughout the holidays for those who are are looking for a meal during the Christmas break.

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