An Important Message About the Backpack Program
Dear Backpack Program supporters, partners, and families,
It is with both gratitude and a heavy heart that I share this update. Beginning this school year, Northlands Rescue Mission will no longer facilitate the Backpack Program. This was a difficult decision, but after much thought and prayer, I know it is the right one.
United Way and other community partners are better positioned to continue this work with children and families, including the continuation of a Backpack Program in some capacity through Grand Forks Public Schools. I encourage you to support them as they carry this program forward.
I want to take a moment to thank Korrin and the many volunteers, donors, and partners who have poured untiring effort into this program over the years. Your service has touched countless lives, keeping families afloat and ensuring that children do not go hungry.
Please know that while we step away from the Backpack Program, our food pantry remains open and will continue feeding individuals, families, and children right here in our community. At the same time, we are redoubling our efforts to assist community members experiencing homelessness, introducing addiction support, job readiness training, and life skills programming that will create lasting change.
If you have questions or concerns about the Backpack Program, please feel free to contact me at (701) 772-6600 ext. 1000 or email everett@jointhemission.org. As we get a clearer picture of the program's future and of the resources available through other community partners, we will do our part to share this information with you and connect you to the appropriate organizations.
With Gratitude,
Everett C. Jones, Sr.
Executive Director
Northlands Rescue Mission
