The Islip Union Free School District continues its commitment to supporting the whole child through its growing partnership with Blessings in a Backpack, a national nonprofit dedicated to fighting childhood hunger.

Three years ago, Rabia Hirji, Director of ENL and World Languages, brought the Blessings in a Backpack program to Islip after seeing its impact in her previous district, Longwood Union Free School District. Since then, the initiative, locally known as Islip Handles Hunger, has quietly and powerfully supported students facing food insecurity.

Blessings in a Backpack is the only national 501(c)(3) nonprofit solely focused on ensuring that children who rely on free or reduced-price school meals do not go hungry over the weekend. While students may have access to breakfast and lunch during the school week, many face a critical gap when school closes on Friday afternoon.

Each Friday during the school year, participating Islip students receive a bag filled with nutritious, easy-to-prepare food to sustain them until they return to school on Monday.

According to national data, more than 13 million children in America face food insecurity. With rising economic pressures impacting families across communities, that number continues to grow, affecting not only physical health but also academic performance, focus, and emotional well-being.

In Islip, the program is led by Community Program Coordinators Kristy Evans and Hilary Crowe Breig, who work in partnership with district staff to ensure students in need are supported with dignity and care. Special Education Teacher Melissa Horn also plays an important role in supporting the initiative at the building level.

Dr. Kathleen O’Callaghan, Assistant Superintendent for Student Support Services, emphasized that the program reflects the district’s broader mission of strengthening the connection between school and home.

“My motto has always been: ‘School Partnership Family Engagement, connecting home and school to create a thriving environment for children,’” Dr. O’Callaghan said. “When we address food insecurity, we are not just providing meals. We are helping students feel secure, supported, and ready to learn.”

Through the dedication of district leaders, staff, and community volunteers, Islip Handles Hunger continues to make a meaningful difference, ensuring that students return to school each Monday nourished, focused, and prepared to succeed.