EBS STAFF
On Feb. 1, the Bozeman Schools Foundation launched its sixth annual “Pack the Sack” campaign to raise funds for the Healthy KidsPack program operated by the Bozeman nonprofit Human Resource Development Council.
In the past semester alone, HRDC delivered 7,763 KidsPacks to schools across southwest Montana. Each pack includes three meals and a healthy snack, and costs roughly $8, up from $5 per pack three years ago.
The school campaign runs until Feb. 14, providing elementary school students and families with information on student hunger and encouraging monetary donations to HRDC. Every dollar raised through the in-school campaign goes directly to HRDC to fund the nutritious, high-calorie weekend KidsPacks meals and snacks for children, according to a Feb. 4 Bozeman Schools Foundation press release. Last year, the campaign raised over $28,000, covering nearly one-third of HRDC’s 2024 KidsPack budget.
“We see firsthand how many students rely on school meals throughout the week—and we know that the KidsPack Program plays a crucial role in ensuring many of our kids have access to essential nutrition over the weekend,” Casey Bertram, school district superintendent, stated in the release. “We are honored to continue our partnership with HRDC to support our students and families—as well as those at schools throughout the county.”
Jill Holder, HRDC food and nutrition department director, explained that demand is increasing for KidsPacks and stated that the Pack the Sack campaign provides “critical” funding.
“Beyond raising funds, Pack the Sack is about fostering a spirit of generosity and community among our students,” stated Jenn Lammers, executive director of the Bozeman Schools Foundation. “This campaign helps students see that even small acts of kindness can make a big impact for kids just like them.”
