To Our Portland Backpack Community,

We've recently heard the rumors circulating about Portland Backpack closing its doors, and we want to set the record straight: Portland Backpack is not shutting down.

Thanks to your unwavering support, we have the food, resources, and determination needed to continue serving our students through the end of the school year. Behind the scenes, we’re embracing a season of transformation—streamlining our operations, reimagining our structure, and finding sustainable ways to preserve our mission while supporting our dedicated team.

As part of this transition, our Executive Board has made the incredibly difficult decision to release our Executive Director, Ms. Shani Harris-Bagwell. We are profoundly grateful for her
leadership, compassion, and tireless service. She has left an enduring mark on this organization, and we wish her every success in her next chapter.

Change is never easy, but it often brings the clarity and courage needed to grow. As we move forward, we remain committed to keeping Portland Backpack strong through the summer and into the next school year. Your support—your time, your donations, your belief in our work—is what keeps us going.

We invite you to stand with us, now more than ever. Come be part of the hope we’re building.

Join us at our upcoming Trivia Night at Garden Tavern Pub on May 6th from 6–8pm. Let’s celebrate our mission, our students, and our shared commitment to fighting childhood hunger—together.

With heartfelt gratitude,

The Portland Backpack Team

Please reach out to office@portlandbackpack.org with any questions.

Please allow 48 hours for email responses during this transitional time.