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Washington Evening Journal
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Washington, IA 52353
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Backpack program continues in new container
Scrap metal donations contribute to replacing food-storage container for WMU backpack program
WINFIELD — The students at the Winfield-Mt. Union School benefit greatly from the outpouring of community support.
The W-MU backpack program raised just shy of $3,000 last year from scrap metal donations alone, according to program treasurer Barb Phelps.
“Our largest contributions come from the scrap metal donations, and we are very grateful for the community members' support,” Phelps said.
Most recently, the backpack program purchased a new shipping container to house their program, placing it behind the school. It was put in place by volunteers Josh Sparrow, Terry Phelps, and Leon Kuehn. Inside the container holds appliances needed for storing food such as a refrigerator, freezer, and shelving units.
“The previous container, donated by Quality Equipment, lasted 10 years and had rusted through,” B. Phelps said, explaining that it was no longer usable to store food safely as the container was unable to keep animals out.
“It lasted for 10 years, which was wonderful, but by the end it was rusted through, and we couldn't keep food in it,” she said.
The goal of the backpack program is to supply food to student families in need for the weekend.
“This upcoming year will be a three-day weekend, so that is a little more concerning I would say.” said B. Phelps.
While donated scarp metal accounts for most of the funding for the program, it is also supported by financial donations from the community, though according to B. Phelps, the monetary donations have decreased lately.
“Most donations are in scrap metal,” said B. Phelps. “We have had some people donate money, but it's just not as much as it used to be. We are trying to pursue some grants. Some corporations and businesses have also donated money in the past.”
Anyone looking to participate in the backpack program or donate can contact Brooke McArtor in the Elementary school office.
