Dixon Buddy Bags, Jersey Mike’s Subs raising money for student meals Feb. 5

DIXON — Buddy Bags of Dixon is hosting a fundraiser from 5-8 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 5, at Jersey Mike’s Subs, 1677 S. Galena Ave. in Dixon, where 20% of all sales will benefit Dixon Public School students.

Buddy Bags is a 501(c)(3) providing weekend meals for Dixon Public School students whose families may need assistance. Buddy Bags Vice President Barb Fane said her 22 volunteers pack two breakfasts, two lunches, two snacks and two drinks at the end of each week for approximately 250 participating students.

The food is purchased locally or donated by individuals, groups and organizations, and Fane said the program costs about $54,000 each year.

Other meal programs providing assistance to children

Mary Jo Edge of Sterling Buddy Bags said her 12 volunteers pack meals for approximately 150 kids every week. Volunteers meet every Wednesday at the First Presbyterian Church, 410 Second Ave. in Sterling. They even get help a few times each year from local churches who send kids in their confirmation programs to pack meals.

“It doesn’t take them long because they make it like a race to see how fast they can get done packing bags,” Edge said. “They enjoy it and it’s a learning experience that maybe not all of their classmates have the same advantages and food at home.”

First Presbyterian Church in Sterling also hosts its annual Souper Bowl food drive in coordination with Boy Scout Sunday. Scouts help with the service, and the congregation collects easy-to-open food items like soup cans and mac and cheese cups. The goal is to ensure even younger children can access and prepare the food, if needed.

For more information or to volunteer, call Buddy Bags of Dixon President Kathy Lane at 815-677-3699 or Mary Jo Edge at 815-625-0452.