Alphonsus Academy and Center for the Arts (AACA) partners with two local elementary schools to feed 75 kids. The students raise funds through a “do it yourself” 5K with the necessary tools provided by Blessings. A grade level pack each month, often partnering with students of a younger grade. Before packing, the students fill out inspirational note cards and learn more about food insecurity. A parent volunteer manages monthly food ordering, and multiple parents deliver the packed bags to partner schools.

Graduates of the K-8 schools have continued their Blessings involvement, with programs at three different Chicago high schools coordinated by AACA alumni. One of the programs run at the St. Ignatius College Prep High School on Chicago’s near west side provides Blessings food to the 86 kids living in the Cabrini Row public housing community.