Helping kids access nutrition during the summer
Brown Bag Buddies, formerly known as SAK (Serving Area Kids), is a non-profit organization, falling under the umbrella of the Glen-Ed Pantry, dedicated to providing lunches to students in our area during the summer. Our primary goal is to help kids receive proper nutrition when their access to consistent meals is most at-risk with our Summer Lunch Program.
Who we are
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A Purpose.
With humble beginnings at Immanuel United Methodist Church in Alton, Brown Bag Buddies - Formerly known as SAK (Serving Area Kids) - started over 14 years ago to meet a need within our communities.
After dissolution of the organization, various local branches pledged to carry the torch behind such an important charge.
Thus, Brown Bag Buddies was born.
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A Vision.
Our belief is that every child should have consistent access to healthy food regardless of their circumstance. Many lose a primary source of essential nutrients when schools are not in session.
U.S. Department of Agriculture data from 2023 shows 1 in 5 children living without access to nutritious food.
Brown Bag Buddies has served a growing number of families since its inception. We're projecting to serve 10,000 lunches this year!
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A Network.
We partner with local businesses and organizations to support our growth and provide for our ever-expanding need base.
Thanks to partnership and donations as well as volunteer support, we come together each year to facilitate wellness in our community.
Our efforts ensure the healthy development of generations of future community members.
Summer Lunch Program
About our
Program Details – Summer 2025:
When: Mondays, June 2 – August 28, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Where: Pick-ups are in three convenient locations, please go to the NEAREST pick-up location to you to help us distribute quicker.
• Glen-Ed Pantry
• Hamel Elementary School
• University Flats
Who is eligible: Kids ages 0–18 in Edwardsville School District #7
What’s Included:
5 balanced breakfasts
5 healthy lunches
Nutritious snacks
Additional Info:
Drive-through pickup only; please have children in the car when possible
No rainchecks or alternate pickup days
Impact in 2024:
Over 8,255 meals served
Reached 165–185 kids per week
Operated on a $38,000 budget