A Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, Maintenance Evaluation of Weekend Backpack Food Assistance Programs

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Nutrition Science
• Program Evaluation

Background:

• Childhood hunger remains a significant public health issue, particularly during weekends when school-based meal programs are unavailable.
• Weekend backpack programs aim to mitigate food insecurity among students by providing food over the weekend.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate an ongoing statewide weekend backpack program using the Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance (RE-AIM) framework.
• To explore the multifaceted aspects of backpack programs in Montana.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining semistructured interviews with key informants (N=20) and descriptive statistics for quantitative data.
• Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and deductively coded using the RE-AIM framework.
• Quantitative data included student participation rates and school-level adoption rates.

Main Results:

• Backpack programs demonstrated broad reach and effectiveness, making them appealing for adoption.
• Implementation presented some positive aspects like ease and privacy protection, with minimal logistical challenges.
• The average cost per weekend food bag was $3.87 (SD ± .94).
• Collaborators and community partners are crucial for program sustainability.

Conclusions:

• Weekend backpack programs are widespread and effective in addressing weekend hunger.
• Continued and expanded efforts are necessary to fully eradicate childhood hunger.