Back To School Food Drive Helps Kids In And Around Bozeman.

With the summer flying by, it's hard to believe that the new school year is just around the corner.  And while it's always exciting to start off another year in school, it's important to remember that some kids don't have everything they need, including enough to eat.

Did you know that 1 out of every 6 Montana children struggles with hunger?

That's why the Gallatin Valley Food Bank has its KidPack program. The program helps out children in 21 different elementary schools in the Gallatin, Jefferson, and Madison counties. The KidPack program makes sure that kids have food to eat on the weekends during the school year.

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Now through September 10th, you can help out kids in need by donating to the KidPack program at the Gallatin Valley Mall.  The Mall has a drop-off station set up at their Guest Services location, which is right next to Macy's.

So what food items are they looking for?

The following items are on the Wish List:

• low sodium canned soup
• low sodium canned chicken and tuna
• fruit cups in fruit juice
• veggie cups
• low sugar single serve cold cereal cups
• low sugar instant oatmeal packets
• 100% fruit juice boxes
• whole grain granola bars

The KidPack program hands out about 450 bags per week during the school year, and while it is aimed at helping children, there are situations where that food helps out the entire family.

Once again, we encourage everyone that is able to donate.  Remember, you can drop off your donations at the mall's Guest Services location just outside of Macy's, during business hours. The mall is open Monday through Saturday from 11 am to 7 pm and on Sunday from 11 am to 5 pm.