Backpack Program

Our Mission

The mission of the Backpack Program is to provide additional food to families in need, decreasing the amount of weekends that children go without adequate nourishment.

Currently, NEUMC works with Sandlapper Elementary for the Richland Two Backpack Program.

A standard bag is filled with 2 breakfast items, 2 lunch items, 2-3 dinner items, 2-3 snack items, and drinks (if available). 

How to Help

Donations will be collected the first Sunday of each month. A collection box is located in the narthex.

Surplus items, and items donated during the summer, are donated to our Blessing Box program to provide assistance to others in need in the local community.

Suggested donations are listed below. The lists are determined by the support system providing the items. Food items need to be easily opened and prepared. Small children will be carrying these bags and the weight of the bag needs to be monitored.

Requested Items

Breakfast Items

  • Individually packed oatmeal and grits
  • Individually packaged muffins
  • Individually packed cereal
  • Pop-tarts
  • Instant muffin or pancake mix (should only require water)
  • Shelf stable milk

Lunch and Dinner Items

  • Individual pasta servings (ravioli, spaghetti-o’s)
  • Individually packaged or canned vegetable cups (green beans, peas, carrots, etc.)
  • Individually packaged or canned fruit (applesauce, peaches, fruit cocktail, etc.)
  • Individually packaged pasta dinners with sauce
  • Ramen noodles/Maruchan instant lunches
  • Macaroni & cheese 
  • Vienna sausages/canned meats (tuna, chicken, etc.)
  • Soups
  • Pork n’ beans
  • Premade PB&J sandwiches

Snack Items

  • Fruit roll-ups/fruit snacks
  • Crackers
  • Granola bars/cereal bars
  • Dried fruit (raisins)
  • Beef jerky/sticks
  • Individual juice boxes (prefer 100% juice)