Backpack Coalition

The Backpack Coalition came about as a way for backpack projects to support each other and share best practices.  By partnering with Harrisonburg Education Foundation, the Coalition works collaboratively with the school district as well as a wide variety of partners. The group meets at least quarterly and has created a network of committed volunteer leaders. In addition, the Coalition is working to jointly fundraise to support all programs.  Harrisonburg Education Foundation will act as a pass through entity to support all Harrisonburg programs.  A 100% of the funds received for Backpack Programs (minus any credit card fees) will  be directed to active programs through their fiscal agents. By working together, we hope that all programs can be successful in supporting students and families that need it the most.

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 Current Active Programs

Bluestone Elementary School
Coordinator: 
Fiscal Agent: Trinity Presbyterian Church
 Grocery bags are packed and sent home with children in their own backpacks every week.

Keister Elementary School
Coordinator: Tamara Grant
Fiscal Agent: Trinity Presbyterian Church
Full grocery bags are delivered each week to family homes.

Skyline Middle School
Coordinator: Jameaka Parham
Fiscal Agent: The Arc of Harrisonburg and Rockingham
Grocery bags are packed and delivered with the assistance of The Arc.

Smithland Elementary School
Coordinator: Emma Phillips
Fiscal Agent: RISE Harrisonburg
Grocery bags are packed and sent home with children in their own backpacks every week. 

Spotswood Elementary School
Coordinator: Spotswood PTO
Fiscal Agent: RISE Harrisonburg
Grocery bags are packed and sent home with children in their own backpacks every week.

Thomas Harrison Middle School
Coordinator: Salvation Army of Harrisonburg
Fiscal Agent: Salvation Army of Harrisonburg
The Salvation Army stocks a mobile food pantry to serve high need neighborhoods within the district, alternating locations weekly.  Through partnerships with Kroger, Target and Blue Ridge Area Food Bank, they provide bakery items, meat (when available), canned goods and other shelf stable items.  Families make their own selections from these offerings.

Harrisonburg High School
Coordinator & Fiscal Agent: Blue Ridge Area Food Bank
Good Food School Market is hosted the first Friday of every month on campus.