Feed-a-Kid Program

As difficult as it may be to hear, hundreds of children in Polk County are not receiving enough food at home to grow and maintain a healthy body and mind. These children may experience chronic sickness and have behavioral problems (irritable, withdrawn, anxious, ect.). They may appear extremely thin, have puffy or swollen skin and have short attention span or inability to concentrate.

How Can I Help?
Outreach purchases food and receives food donations for donors, volunteers and friends throughout the year. These food items are used by the Food Pantry in support of those in need including the Feed-A-Kid Program. Volunteers fill food bags on a weekly basis which are distributed to local schools that have identified a nutritionally at-risk child. The bags are placed in the child's locker during class hours in order to help protect the child's identity. 
How to Help: First, become an advocate for Outreach and spread the message of the need to serve this growing population. Next, become an Outreach Volunteer and join with us in serving families crisis through your talents and abilities. Lastly, simply give a financial contribution to support the ongoing work of Outreach. Your gift will enable us to continue to serve others in need.

​Interested in Learning More about this program? Please contact your child's school or Outreach 828-894-2988 to request this program. 

Keep Your Eyes Open for Signs of a Nutritionally At-Risk Child

* Arriving to school on Monday morning with extreme hunger
* Asking when the next meal / snack will be served
* Regularly asking teacher / neighbor / friend for food
* Saving / hoarding / stealing food to take home for themselves and siblings
* Lingering around or asking for seconds at school meals
* Comments about not having enough food in the home
* Asking classmates for food they do not want