This holiday season, Johnson County Friends Feeding Friends (JC-FFF) brought an extra dose of joy and nourishment to kids in Johnson County by sending them home with brightly colored holiday backpacks filled with food and snacks. Thanks to the overwhelming generosity of our community, these efforts were a resounding success.
A Community Effort
The vibrantly hued drawstring backpacks were donated by generous community members who understand the importance of ensuring children have access to nutritious meals, even when school is out. Each backpack was thoughtfully packed with a variety of food items and snacks to sustain kids over the holiday break. The bright colors not only carried a sense of festivity but also symbolized the vibrant support of the community behind this initiative.
A special shout-out goes to Ruth Straessler, along with Mandi and Grace Blanch, who dedicated their time to help fill the holiday backpacks. Their hard work and cheerful attitudes brought warmth to the packing process, ensuring every bag was prepared with care and love.
Giving Back to Local Businesses
This year, JC-FFF was thrilled to include $25 gift certificates to Buffalo’s local Bread Board restaurant in each backpack. These gift certificates give families the opportunity to enjoy a delicious meal out during the holiday season. Including Bread Board gift certificates was especially meaningful because the restaurant generously donated all the bread JC-FFF used in their summer brown bag lunch program. Supporting those who support us has always been a cornerstone of JC-FFF’s mission.
Generous Financial Support
This initiative wouldn’t have been possible without the holiday funds provided by First Interstate Bank, The Powder River Energy Foundation, The Wyoming Hunger Initiative, and the Bank of Buffalo. Their contributions allowed JC-FFF to extend the holiday cheer and provide these valuable resources to local families in need.
A Word from Our Program Coordinator
“It’s incredibly important to us to not only support the families we serve but also give back to the businesses that make our programs possible,” said Breean Waller, Program Coordinator for JC-FFF. “This holiday backpack initiative reflects the spirit of giving that our community embodies so well.”
Looking Ahead
The holiday backpack program is just one example of how JC-FFF strives to address food insecurity in Johnson County with creativity and compassion. It’s a testament to what can be accomplished when a community comes together to support its neighbors.
To everyone who donated, volunteered, or supported JC-FFF in any way this season, thank you for being part of the solution. Together, we’re making a difference, one meal and one backpack at a time.
