A Paint Night will be held at Meadows of Dan Elementary School, with proceeds to benefit the school’s backpack program.

Currently, there are about 40 youngsters in pre-K though seventh grade participating in the program, according to Phyllis Nester, secretary of the Meadows of Dan Backpack Committee.

Participants receive a package of food in their book bags each Friday of the school year, Nester said, and added the packages are designed to ensure youngsters have something to eat over the weekend.

Packages include boxes of cereal, macaroni and cheese and other types of food that are child-friendly and easily prepared at home. Juice also is a staple, Nester said.

The program was incorporated as a nonprofit agency in 2009, as a way to help youngsters enrolled in the school, according to Nester. Children’s parents must complete an application for a child to be considered to participate in the program, she added.

“We get most of our help from people who just want to help feed needy children. We are blessed with people who make regular donations including individuals and churches,” but occasionally do raise funds for the program, Nester said.

Paint Night begins at 6 p.m. on May 19, with painting from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. by instructor and artist Grace Helms. She will guide participants in painting a cardinal.

The fee to participate is $35 per person for those who pre-register, and $40 at the door.

All materials will be supplied.

To pre-register, call Angela Keith at (276) 952-2424.

Light refreshments and finger foods will be provided.