In a significant act of community stewardship, Bill Lochte, President of Praise in the Pines, announced the donation of $5,000 to the Weekend Backpack Program—a lifeline for children facing hunger across the region. The funds raised through the highly successful Praise in the Pines Music Festival will be instrumental in providing weekend meals to vulnerable students at Eagle River Elementary, Land O’Lakes Elementary, and Phelps Elementary Schools.
The Weekend Backpack Program, operated in collaboration with Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, is a critical initiative designed to combat child hunger by ensuring that students receive essential nutrition over the weekend. Each Friday, children at risk of food insecurity are sent home with backpacks filled with easy-to-prepare, nutrient-rich food items that sustain them until they return to school.
“The impact of this donation cannot be overstated,” said a representative from Prince of Peace Lutheran Church. “With this generous support from Praise in the Pines, we are not only able to continue our mission but expand our reach, ensuring that no child in our community has to face the uncertainty of hunger.”
The $5,000 donation marks a pivotal moment for the Weekend Backpack Program, allowing it to scale its efforts to meet the growing needs of the community. For many families, the program is more than just a source of food; it is a beacon of hope during tough times, bridging the gap when other resources fall short.
Hunger remains a pressing issue for many local families, particularly over the weekend when school meals are unavailable. The Weekend Backpack Program steps in to provide much-needed relief, ensuring that children return to school on Monday ready to learn rather than distracted by hunger.
This substantial contribution from Praise in the Pines underscores the organization’s deep commitment to the well-being of the community. By directing funds from their annual music festival to this essential cause, Praise in the Pines is making a profound impact on the lives of countless children and families.
For those looking to join the fight against child hunger or support the Weekend Backpack Program, please contact Prince of Peace Lutheran Church. Together, we can build a stronger, healthier future for our children—one backpack at a time.