It's a gift that could not have come at a better time.

That's what local food bank officials are saying about a 20 thousand dollar grant that will allow them to feed hungry children throughout the school year.

Staff at Gilchrist County's Senior Citizen Food Pantry just found out they received the grant, which will help them jump start a kid's backpack program.

Food bank director, Rick Weder said the program will allow hungry children -- many whose only meal is at school -- to be able to take home food each weekend.

It's a grant they've been trying to get for six years. Weder said the good news has him on cloud nine.

The new backpack program will officially start this coming school year.

In the meantime, you can help by donating backpacks, preferably ones with rollers.

Donations will be accepted at the Senior Citizens Food Bank in Trenton. Address is listed above.

For more information, contact Rick Weder at 352-463-2710.