For the City Times

The Wisconsin Rapids Rafters have partnered with Sears Hometown Store and Rapids Family Backpacks for the inaugural “Fill The Backpacks” tennis ball toss promotion for the 2016 season.

On nine dates during the 2016 regular season, fans will have the opportunity to purchase numbered tennis balls and then take aim at a washing machine positioned on the field near the third baseline, during one promotional break of the Rafters game each night. Any fan that gets their ball into the washer will received two free tickets to attend the August 12th game for a chance to win a new washing machine from Sears Hometown Store, by completing one final toss into the machine.

Rapids Family Backpacks is a weekend meal in a backpack program for families facing hunger at select Wisconsin Rapids Elementary Schools. Backpack meals are intended for the whole family, not just the child, and encourage nutritious family meals. The program is in its fifth year and currently serves four schools: Grove, Howe, Mead, and Washington Elementary Schools. In total, approximately 45 backpacks are filled weekly, serving nearly 200 people between October and May. The program is run completely through grants and community donations.

All proceeds from the tennis ball sales will go directly towards purchasing food that will be used to “Fill the Backpacks.” Rapids Family Backpacks include nutritious, non-perishable foods for a complete family meal. Each backpack includes:
– Whole Grains
– Low Sodium Vegetables
– Low Sugar Fruits
– Canned Protein
– Meal Stretching Items (i.e. peanut butter and cereal)
Backpacks also include a recipe card, a list of community specific resources (such as how to access the food pantry) and educational opportunities.