Basic Blessings Backpack Program was honored at Congressman John Kline's Star of the North Awards

The staff of Reliance Bank and MRG Tool and Die set out to bridge a gap for children who strongly rely on the school meal program to provide their primary meal.  In most circumstances when school is not in session, weekends holidays and summer, food is scarce for these children.  We began by filling 30 bags per week for Jefferson Elementary.  Since then, we are now serving four schools and are filling 160 bags per week.

Each bag is filled with 2 breakfasts, 2 main entrees, 2 fruit servings and 2 snacks.  These bags are discreetly placed in a child’s backpack on the day prior to a school weekend or break.  The teachers at these schools help to make sure the students most in need are getting these food items.

In 2011, Reliance Bank was honored as a 2011 National Winner of the ICBA Community Bank Service Awards for its participation in the Basic Blessings Backpack Program.   In 2012, the program was again honored by United States Congressman John Kline at his Star of the North Awards.

Approximately $14,000 is raised annually to fund this program – and that does not include the “in kind” gifts of food and juice given to the program.  We have had the support of several local sponsors, and we’ve received grant assistance, but the need is growing.    Please consider contributing and help make a difference in these children’s lives.  Questions regarding the program can be submitted using the contact us form or by giving us a call. 

Hunger Doesn't Take A Break On The Weekend.