Blessings in a Backpack River Valley is the local chapter of the national Blessings in a Backpack organization. It is sponsored by the River Valley Clergy Alliance and is a 501(c)3 organization, with an advisory team of community members . Headquarters for BIBRVC is located at The Grow Center at 310 Main St. NW, Bourbonnais, IL 60914. Robert Bushey, Jr. serves as Program Director.

How BIB Works:

Pandemic and post-pandemic, Blessings in a Backpack River Valley Communities has moved to providing students with prepackaged meals, ordered from SYSCO foods. 

Historically, over 500 local volunteers packed grocery bags which were delivered to local schools to be discreetly distributed weekly. BIB bags include 6-7 ready-to-eat, kid-friendly, nutritious, non-perishable, and easy-to-prepare food items for under $3 per bag. Students receiving BIB bags qualify for the Federal Free Meal Program and are selected by school administrators, social workers, and teachers. All food is purchased locally from our grocery partner Kroger of Bourbonnais or donated by participating organizations.