Food and assistance for students in need
Nisky NOW (Nutrition on Weekends) is a program that provides a weekly delivery of food to families of students in need. It was previously referred to as the Weekend Backpack Program. Participation is entirely confidential.
Nisky NOW is coordinated by School Social Worker Jessica Brennan. It is staffed by a team of volunteers, and support comes from the Niskayuna Community Foundation, N-CAP (the Niskayuna Community Action Program), some parent groups and many individuals.
The program began during the 2014-15 school year. It has been observed that when families face economic difficulties, they often need to find a way to stretch their food budgets. This program provides families with a weekly bag of food, delivered to their home. This can be the difference in students having an afterschool snack or a quality meal on the weekend.
If your family would benefit from the program, you may request confidential assistance by contacting Jessica Brennan at jbrennan@niskyschools.org or at 377-4666, ext. 14602. Faculty and staff members may also make confidential referrals to Nisky NOW by contacting Mrs. Brennan.
School social workers may also be able to connect families with additional assistance, such as help with home heating bills or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF).
Mrs. Brennan is leading a team of volunteers as they seek to raise more awareness and funding for Niskayuna NOW. If you are interested in getting involved or making a contribution, please contact her.
Donations can be sent directly to Nisky NOW, #132, 1737 Union Street, Niskayuna, NY 12309. Checks can be made out to the Nisky NOW.