TNFCU & Fieldstone Foundation announce ‘Backpacks for the Future’: A united fight against childhood hunger


In an inspiring display of community unity and compassion, TruNorthern Federal Credit Union, in partnership with the Fieldstone Foundation, is thrilled to announce the launch of the 2024 ”Backpacks for the Future“ fundraising campaign.

This initiative aims to bolster the Fieldstone Foundation’s Backpack Program, a vital community program dedicated to ensuring no child faces hunger on the weekends when school meals are not available.

In 2023, the Fieldstone Foundation took decisive action to enhance the program’s efficiency and reach in response to a sharp increase in families struggling with food security. Through meticulous analysis and strategic restructuring, the program now offers greater access to nutritional meals at half the cost, ensuring more children benefit from this essential program.

This year, with the generous support of TruNorthern Federal Credit Union, the “Backpacks for the Future“ campaign sets an ambitious goal to raise $10,000. This target will be achieved through a dollar-for-dollar match of up to $5,000 by TruNorthern, doubling the impact of each donation. This collaboration not only underscores the shared commitment of both organizations to eliminate childhood hunger but also reflects the deep-seeded values of the North Country community.

”I grew up in this area and have a strong desire to give back to the community that raised me,” said Jayne Tracy, marketing supervisor for TruNorthern Federal Credit Union. “I know the hearts of people in this community and have seen us rally to support one another. We won’t stand by and let children in our own backyard go hungry. This partnership is our way of galvanizing our community behind an incredible local cause.”

Started in 2012, the Backpack Program currently supports over 450 local children, with approximately 30 children awaiting enrollment in the program. The “Backpacks for the Future“ campaign is a call to action for the community, inviting everyone to contribute to this noble cause.

“The Backpack Program is essential for families in our community,” said Darin Childs, CEO of TruNorthern Federal Credit Union. ”By helping fund this program, we are not only providing additional support to families in our neighborhood, but we are also ensuring that no child goes hungry in our backyard.”

”I could not be more grateful for the unwavering support of TruNorthern Federal Credit Union,” noted Amanda Tagliarino, senior director of the Fieldstone Foundation. “Their partnership continues to help ensure our community is thriving and that children receive the food and support they need.  It is truly inspiring to see what we can achieve when we unite for a common cause. Together, we are not just filling backpacks; we are nurturing futures.”

The Fieldstone Foundation and TruNorthern Federal Credit Union invite the community to support this critical mission. Every donation, no matter the size, ensures no child in the community goes hungry.

Individuals interested in participating in our “Backpacks for the Future” campaign, can visit the TruNorthern Federal Credit Union branch located at 494 E. Main Street in Malone. There is a secure collection box where donations can be placed.

For more information on how to get involved, please contact Amanda Tagliarino at (518) 483-1251.