According to a 2024 study done by Wilder Research and Second Harvest Heartland 26% of Minnesota households with children are experiencing food insecurity. That percentage increases to 40% if the household is a family of color! The White Bear Area Food Shelf is a vital resource of not only food (see information about KidPack program below) but also of connections to additional resources for families.
Two of our favorite local resources, specifically for families with children, are the Bear Care Clinic and The Closet.
Bear Care Clinic is a school-based health center offering students enrolled in the White Bear Lake Area Schools accessible and affordable health care. District students have access to wellness exams, vaccines, rapid testing for illness like strep throat, mental health counselling, and nutrition services. For a full list of Bear Care’s services or to make an appointment, visit their website.
The Closet offers clothing and winter gear for White Bear Lake Area School students and their families. The Closet is open by appointment, Monday through Thursday, and is free. Referrals to shop and appointments can be scheduled through a school principal, social worker, counselor, or school psychologist. Learn more on their website.
KidPack- sending home weekend food with students.
The food shelf also has a specific program for families with children. The KidPack Program is a free, supplemental weekend food program for students’ kindergarten to 5th grade enrolled in White Bear Lake Area Schools. Each Friday afternoon enrolled students receive 3 breakfasts, 3 small meals, and 5 snacks delivered straight into their backpacks to bring home for the weekend. To enroll in the program, ask for a registration form at the front desk of your child’s elementary school or contact Maddie Wilson madeline@whitebearfoodhself.org.
How can you help support the KidPack program?
These single serve items are more expensive than bulk goods and are complicated to source. The ingredients, nutritional information, and current expiration date need to be listed on each item, not just the box.
You can help!
Here are three stores with shopping lists and items that pass regulations. Thank you for supporting kids and families during this Back to School season.
