Hope In Every Backpack!
Founded in 2011, Backpack Blessings began with a simple but powerful vision: to ensure no child in Panama City Beach goes to bed hungry. What started with the compassion of five dedicated individuals—Janet and Ray Williams, Rebecca Dent, Amy Ezell and Joe and Stacey Thomas—has grown into a thriving community-driven nonprofit that feeds hundreds of children each week.
What We Do
Backpack Blessings, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides weekend meals to students in all Panama City Beach schools, from Pre-K through 12th grade. These students are identified by their school counselors and teachers as needing additional support due to food insecurity at home.
Each child receives 7 nutritious meals and snacks every weekend, helping fill the gap when school-provided meals are not available. These meals not only feed their bodies but also give them the energy and focus they need to thrive in school and beyond.
“We’re here to nourish, support, and uplift local students—because no child should have to worry about their next meal.”
Our Impact By The Numbers:
- 410+ students served weekly
- 2,870+ meals distributed every weekend
- 8 local schools supported
- Pre-K through 12th-grade students
- $7 spent per student weekly — over $2,600 each week
- Arnold High School pantry stocked monthly
- 100% volunteer-led and donation-funded
- 100% of donations go directly toward food
What We Provide Each Month:
- 1,640 cans of SpaghettiOs with meatballs
- 820 cans each of chicken noodle soup and ravioli
- 1,640 servings of applesauce or mandarin oranges
- 1,640 juice pouches
- 1,640 cans of tuna or chicken
- 1,640 pouches of oatmeal or grits
- 1,640 single-serve cereal packs
- 1,640 breakfast pastries (Pop-Tarts, muffins, etc.)
- 1,640 peanut butter crackers
- 1,640 granola or Nutri-Grain bars
- 3,280 packs of chicken ramen
- 410 jars of peanut butter
How You Can Help
We can’t do this without you! There are many ways to get involved and make a difference:
Give Financially
Your donation directly helps us feed more students. Every dollar makes a difference.
Donate Food
Organize a food drive or contribute shelf-stable items to help reduce our monthly costs.
Volunteer With Us
Join us in packing bags, unloading food, or delivering to schools.
Together, We Are Better!
Backpack Blessings runs entirely on community support, volunteers, and donations. Whether you donate, volunteer, or pray—you’re helping a hungry child feel seen, supported, and full.
“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” – Helen Keller