Thrives has ended for the 2020-2021 school year.
The program will restart in September.
Be on the lookout for our information from your child's school.
You may also contact us directly at thrives@brooklinefoodpantry.org.
FREE summer meals are available Monday through Friday for ALL children 18 years and younger via Brookline Schools' Food Services. Click here for locations and times.
What is a Thrives bag? How does the program work?
- Each Thrives bag contains two breakfast items, two lunch items and milk for the weekend PLUS 14 snacks for the entire week.
- Everything is shelf-stable, single-serve portions. Nothing needs to be refrigerated.
- Thrives can also accommodate most major food allergies and dietary restrictions.
- One bag feeds one child.
- Families may take bags for all children in their household.
- Because of COVID-19, the Thrives menu has been standardized (relatively the same each week). Thrives bags are packed in paper bags, stapled shut, to minimize touch points.
What is in a weekend bag?
Here's an example of what a bag includes:
- 2 shelf-stable 8oz. low fat milk boxes
- Two single-serve cereal bowls
- Macaroni & cheese single-serve cup
- Ramen or soup cup
- Variety of snacks, including granola bars, fig bar, crackers & cheese snack packs, and graham crackers
- Potted fruit (applesauce or diced fruit cups)
- Pressed fruit bar
How does my student get Thrives bags?
Students can get Thrives bags at their school on Fridays during the school year. For the upcoming 2021-2022 school year, information about how and where to receive Thrives bags at school will be sent home in early September.
Why does Brookline need a weekend food program?
In the 2018-19 school year, 14% of all Brookline Public Schools students received free or reduced meals. School administrators believe the actual need is much higher. Economic disparity is rising within Brookline. Between 2000 and 2010, the number of households earning less than $15,000 per year or more than $100,000 per year increased, while the number of households earning between $15,000-$99,000 decreased. The struggle to meet basic needs, including food, has a direct impact on the academic performance of Brookline students.
How can I help?
Brookline Thrives is a volunteer-run organization and your help is appreciated. You can:
Donate – $275 feeds one student every weekend during the school year. Any amount is appreciated.
Volunteer - Stay tuned for the next volunteer schedule, to be released in early September 2021.
How can I learn more or volunteer?
Contact us at thrives@brooklinefoodpantry.org.
How can I learn more or volunteer?
Contact us at thrives@brooklinefoodpantry.org.