Backpack 48
Backpack 48
In 2014, West Side came together with the Mansfield Public Schools with open hearts and a simple, powerful goal: to care for students beyond the classroom walls. It became clear that for some children, the end of the school day—or especially the weekend—meant uncertainty about their next meal. Moved by this need, West Side began a quiet but meaningful partnership, not only encouraging the use of Our Daily Bread Food Pantry in town but also stepping in to meet students where they were—with dignity and compassion.
We launched an effort to discreetly send backpacks filled with food home with students over the weekend. What began as a small act of kindness soon grew into something deeply impactful. In 2020, this effort was given a name that reflected its mission: Backpack 48—representing the 48 hours between Friday afternoon and Monday morning, when many children might otherwise go without. Today, Backpack 48 continues to provide more than just food. Families receive hygiene items, cleaning supplies, and a gentle reminder that they are not alone. Whether a family is facing a temporary hardship, recovering from a setback, or simply needs a helping hand, we understand that everyone's story is different—and every story matters.