The North Woodward Community Foundation has been awarded a $10,000 grant from Novi-based ITC Holdings Corp. (ITC) to support students participating in the Blessings in a Backpack program in Wyandotte.

“There are 2,446 children in Wyandotte on the free and reduced lunch program, many of whom do not receive sufficient meals or nutrition over the weekends,” said Tom Kaszubski, executive director of North Woodward Community Foundation. “This generous donation will help us expand our Blessings in a Backpack program in Wyandotte and provide children with the nourishment needed for successful learning.”

Studies and research show proper eating and nutrition has a significant impact on a child’s ability to comprehend and learn. Eliminating barriers to learning caused by a lack of food affords students struggling with food insecurities the same opportunities to succeed in school as their fellow students.

Blessings in a Backpack is a national program providing students with food insecurities a backpack containing enough food to provide six meals during the weekend. The North Woodward Community Foundation participates in the national Blessings in a Backpack program in nine communities: Avondale, Clarkston, Clawson, Royal Oak, Rochester Hills, South Redford, Taylor, Waterford, and Wyandotte.

“ITC is proud to support the North Woodward Community Foundation’s commitment to improve the quality of life within our communities,” said Gregory Ioanidis, president of ITC Michigan. “ITC understands the importance of health, wellness and education and we’re happy to help provide children with the food they need to enhance their education and remain healthy overall.”

Through its Charitable Giving Program, ITC awards grants to qualified 501 (c) (3) organizations that deliver charitable services in the counties where ITC operates. Grants support programs and projects that reflect the values of ITC: education, environmental stewardship, social services and health and wellness.

For more information about the North Woodward Community Foundation, visit www.communityfoundationoftroy.org.