BackPack Food Program’s effects on U.S. elementary students’ hunger and on-task behavior

Purpose/Objectives The purpose of this study was to evaluate the BackPack Food Program’s effectiveness in combating students’ hunger over the weekends and school breaks, as well as analyze the program’s effects on students’ on-task behavior in the classroom. Additionally, this study examined program satisfaction from students, parents, and teachers. Methods Over the course of three semesters, hunger surveys were evaluated for 82 students. Direct observations of on-task behavior were recorded for 52 students, and satisfaction surveys were collected from 192 students, 138 parents, and 82 teachers. Results Statistical analyses indicated that reports of hunger did not decrease significantly and on-task behavior did not increase significantly. However, surveys indicate high rates of child, parent, and teacher satisfaction with the program. Application to Child Nutrition Professionals Professionals who manage and implement supplemental weekend food programs may find it beneficial to measure the impact the food has on the entire family, rather than solely on the child. Therefore, program managers should focus efforts to remediate the effects of food insecurity on the whole family unit.