Public Affairs Manager Leticia Saenz was attracted to Backpack Friends because of its clear, practical mission: making sure children have enough to eat when school is not in session.

“Fighting childhood hunger is a pillar of our Fueling Safe and Thriving Communities program, so supporting Backpack Friends was a natural partnership,” Saenz explained.

In conversations with educators and community members, she learned that many students rely on school meals during the week but face uncertainty once the weekend begins. Even a brief gap of a few days without reliable food can negatively impact a child’s health, concentration, and sense of security.

“I believe supporting Backpack Friends is a tangible way to help students begin each week ready to learn,” stated Saenz.

For many children, school provides consistency and stability. Backpack Friends helps extend that stability beyond the classroom by making sure students have the food they need when they go home for the weekend.

What sets Backpack Friends apart is how the program works so effectively through partnerships with local schools. Teachers and school staff help identify students who may benefit from the program while volunteers assemble backpacks filled with nutritious foods like shelf stable milk, oatmeal, fruit cups, pasta, and snacks. Each Friday, those backpacks are discreetly placed in students’ bags so they can take them home without drawing attention, which allows children to receive support while maintaining their dignity and privacy.

“Backpack Friends shows how a simple idea can have a powerful impact,” Saenz added. “When students come to school on Monday, nourished and ready to focus, teachers notice the difference.”

At its core, Backpack Friends is built on the power of community participation. Atmos Energy not only offers financial support to help keep the shelves stocked with healthy items, but volunteers also pack food bags throughout the school year and help with special events, including setup and teardown at their fundraisers.

Their impact extends far beyond the backpacks themselves. By addressing weekend hunger, Backpack Friends helps reduce one of the hidden barriers that can affect a child’s ability to succeed in school. Reliable access to food supports better focus in the classroom, improved attendance, and greater peace of mind for families who may be navigating financial challenges.

Atmos Energy’s involvement reflects a broader commitment to strengthening our communities by supporting organizations that meet essential needs. By partnering with Backpack Friends, Atmos Energy helps sustain a program that delivers immediate support while also investing in long-term student success. The work demonstrates how local collaboration between schools, volunteers, donors, and partners like Atmos Energy can truly Make a Difference in the lives of children and families.