The Fieldstone Foundation is proud to announce a $10,000 Community Impact Grant from the United Way of the Adirondack Region in support of the foundation’s Backpack Program—a vital initiative that provides consistent, nutritious weekend meals to children experiencing food insecurity across seven school districts in Northern New York.
This marks a significant increase in support from United Way, reinforcing their commitment to improving lives and strengthening communities. As a proud United Way partner agency, the Fieldstone Foundation is honored to share this mission by working hand in hand to build healthier, more equitable communities.
“Together, our organizations are addressing hunger while creating the foundation for better health, improved learning and stronger families,” said Amanda Tagliarino, Senior Director of the Fieldstone Foundation. “We are deeply grateful for United Way’s generous investment in this work and for their unwavering commitment to the children and neighbors of our community.”
The Backpack Program plays a critical role in closing the weekend nutrition gap for food-insecure students who rely on school meal programs during the week. In 2024, the program delivered weekend meals to 454 children while operating without a waitlist, thanks in large part to United Way’s support. Through strategic food sourcing, menu refinement and strong school partnerships, the foundation reduced costs to just $125 per child per year—less than half the cost of similar programs nationwide.
“United Way of the Adirondack Region is proud to support the Fieldstone Foundation in its fight against childhood hunger,” said John Bernardi, President & CEO of United Way. “Their targeted, community-driven approach makes a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families in Northern New York.”
With Franklin County holding the third-highest child poverty rate in New York State, this collaboration comes at an important time. The Fieldstone Foundation will use this year’s $10,000 grant to deliver over 50,000 meals and snacks to children across the region, while strengthening school partnerships, improving enrollment access and maintaining program sustainability.
“The United Way is a valued partner and colleague that understands the importance of addressing the social needs of vulnerable and marginalized individuals in our region,” said James Button, President & CEO of Citizen Advocates. “Ensuring all residents have access to the basic life necessities—whether that’s healthy food choices, affordable housing or access to basic care, the work we do as a team is essential to building stronger, more resilient communities.”
For more information or ways to give, contact Amanda Tagliarino at amandatagliarino@citizenadvocates.net. Donations of any amount can be mailed to:
Fieldstone Foundation, P.O. Box 608, Malone, NY 12953.
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