Schools partner with Food Bank to help students

A large number of Peekskill school children whose families are struggling are benefiting from the welcome help of a new partner with the Peekskill City School District. 

This summer, for the first time, the Food Bank of Westchester is partnering with the Peekskill Schools in the FBW Backpack program. Fifty Peekskill students attending summer school and their families have received a bag containing enough food for three to four family meals over a weekend. According to FBW, weekends are times of greater food insecurity. Along with the food, families also receive recipes and nutrition information.

Food Bank for Westchester (FBW) is a non-profit organization dedicated to hunger relief for all Westchester families in need. With generous donations of time, funds and food from Westchester-area companies and individuals, FBW feeds many hungry neighbors.

Teachers know how hard it is for children to learn when they’re hungry. Short attention spans, poor test-taking skills, and absences due to illness are all side effects of hunger that lead to poor academic performance.

The program is coordinated by Alicia McCorvey, social worker, and Joseph Mosey, assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction. “Food for Westchester has been just great to work with and we really appreciate their help,” Mosey said. “The foods that are donated are well-packaged and nutritious and the program is very well-organized. We are exploring the possibility of expanding the program in the fall.”

For further information on Food Bank for Westchester, visit their Web site at www.foodbankforwestchester.org.

For further information on the Peekskill/FBW partnership, contact:

Joseph Mosey, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction 914-737-3300 x328