Southern Wisconsin Times

The School District of Janesville (SDJ) is calling for volunteers to assist in its 16th annual "Delivering Bags of Hope" food distribution event, scheduled for Saturday, December 14, 2024. The initiative was originally started by the United Auto Workers Local 95 and continued until the closure of General Motors' Janesville plant. In 2008, SDJ took over the effort to support local families in need.

Mark Holzman, Superintendent of SDJ, emphasized the importance of community involvement: “The School District of Janesville can only be successful if we can maintain and improve positive connections with families outside of the classroom.” He added that "the Bags of Hope event is a terrific example of a strong community connection."

This year’s fundraising efforts have amassed $50,000 to provide groceries for 350 families and 50 seniors in Janesville. The event relies on donations from local businesses such as Dollar General, Seneca Foods, Dorina/So Good, Kwik Trip, and Festival Foods. Other sponsors include The Morse Company and LP Tree Service among others.

Community members are encouraged to contribute financially or volunteer their time. Donations can be made payable to the "School District of Janesville" care of Bags of Hope or through their website.

Volunteers aged 13 and older are needed for tasks including bagging groceries at Dollar General's south side complex starting at 8:30 AM on December 14. Volunteers will also load cars and deliver groceries throughout the town.

Interested individuals should contact Heather North by December 13 via email at heather.north@janesville.k12.wi.us or phone at 608-295-3140.