Backpack Program

Providing free weekend food with easy access for families in South Seattle.

Nearly 80% of students in our service area qualify for free or reduced-price lunches, compared to the Seattle School District’s average of 33%. Our Backpack Program is a key support, partnering with South Seattle Schools to provide families who are eligible for free and reduced-price lunch programs with food for two meals to support them through the weekend.

frequently asked questions

The Backpack Program is RVFB's way of feeding children and families at Seattle Public Schools. We provide snack bags and produce to schools. Schools then distribute the food we provide to students and families enrolled at their school. We prepare over 500 bags of food per week for 12 schools. The bags are all shelf stable and include snacks, canned entrees, and breakfast items. We also provide produce to schools such as apples, oranges, carrots, potatoes, and more.
If you would like to sign up, please talk to a school administrator or social worker.

Schools can contact our Youth Engagement Coordinator, Holden to learn more. We can organize providing your school food and the school can pass along the food to you. If you would like you can also utilize our direct food services such as our home delivery and grocery program.
Sign up online to join us as we pack bags for schools on Tuesdays from 9am-12:30pm. If you're interested in setting up a packing party or food drive at your school, please email our Development Support Specialist, Hilary.
We regularly table at school events, host food drives and packing parties at schools, and are currently developing a few special projects such as a student art showcase. If you're interested in setting up an event, packing party, or food drive at your school please email info@rvfb.org.