The Fieldstone Foundation is proud to announce the rebranding of its flagship annual fundraiser. Formerly known as Taste of Malone, the event has been renamed Meals with Meaning to reflect the growth of the Backpack Program and the expanded community and restaurant participation across Franklin County. This year, the event will be held on Thursday, May 1st.
For over a decade, the Backpack Program has provided weekend meals to children experiencing food insecurity, ensuring no child in the North Country goes hungry when school food programs are unavailable. Thanks to the steadfast support of local businesses, restaurants, volunteers and community members, the program has grown to serve nearly 450 children in Malone, Chateaugay, Brushton-Moira, St. Regis Falls and Salmon River school districts. Additionally, restaurant participation, which is a crucial component to this fundraising event has also expanded to include surrounding communities supported by the Backpack Program.
Meals with Meaning celebrates this broader representation and highlights the profound impact of a united community working together for a greater good. Through careful program refinement and strong partnerships, the Backpack Program provides essential weekend meals for just $125 per child annually—a cost significantly lower than the national average of $300 per child for similar programs. Every dollar donated is maximized to reach as many children as possible, ensuring sustainability and the ability to expand as needed.
“Rebranding this event as Meals with Meaning truly represents what this fundraiser has become—a powerful expression of neighbors caring for neighbors,” said Amanda Tagliarino, Senior Director of the Fieldstone Foundation. “We’re grateful to the local restaurants, businesses, volunteers and residents whose dedication ensures that children in Franklin County have the nutrition they need to thrive.”
Meals with Meaning is a testament to the strength of a community united by compassion. Together, we are building a stronger, more connected North Country where no child has to wonder where their next meal will come from.