PELHAM – Vineyard Family Services of Central Alabama, Inc. received a $29,950 grant on March 29 for its BackPack Buddies program that provides food to Shelby County students.

The Shelby County Community Health Foundation endowed the grant in support of the BackPack Buddies program. BackPack Buddies helps to feed local public school children who may be at risk for food insecurity. The program is a part of Vineyard Family Services, a local social services organization.

Money was allocated to BackPack Buddies to purchase food items for children in the Alabaster City, Pelham City and Shelby County schools systems.

The BackPack Buddies Program provides high quality food bags weekly to support public school children who are considered at-risk for under-nutrition. The program also supports grade promotion, solidifies school counselor and student relationships, and promotes overall social and emotional well-being.

“Vineyard Family Services is very grateful for the continued support of The Shelby County Community Health Foundation. They intimately understand the role nutrition plays in fighting disease, sharpening cognitive development, and in supporting academic performance in young children,” said Program Director Stephanie Grissom.

Executive Director Ward Williams founded Vineyard Family Services in 2007. The agency focuses on feeding children in need, promoting responsible fatherhood, and helping families in crisis. For more information visit Vfsdads.com.