POTSDAM – A program at A.A. Kingston Elementary School is aiming to provide children from low-income households with food when they are not in school for extended periods of time, beginning with the December break.

Operation A.A. Kingston Backpack Challenge is asking community members to help with donations of food or money.

The Challenge is asking community members to help with donations of food or money.

Over 65 percent of New York State children qualify for free or reduced-price school lunches, which of course they don't get when school is not in session.

The organization wants to begin offering backpacks filled with items to families of AAK students during the 2010 December break.

There will be opportunities for community members to contribute food at local stores with drop-off boxes. Items can also be sent to school with kids, or dropped off at the AAK nurse's office. Items packed in glass should be dropped off at school. Perishable items should be brought to the guidance or nurse's offices on Friday, Dec. 17 for delivery Dec. 20.

The types of items they are looking for include typical kids' favorites like macaroni and cheese, noodle cups, cans of soup, pudding cup packs, peanut butter, jelly, bread, fruit cups, fruit snacks, and fresh fruit, cereal, Pop-Tarts, tuna, trail mix, and so on.

If you have any questions, would like additional information, or would like to find out how you can help in other ways, contact A.A. Kingston Middle School Guidance Counselor Kristen Zender at 265-2000, ext. 521, or kzender@potsdam.k12.ny.us