The Airdrie Food Bank has launched a pilot lunch project to expand on the breakfast and snack program currently being offered in Rocky View Schools.

The program is currently running without funding, but local Realtor Chris Mulders is trying to help the program by entering the Food bank into CIR Realty's In My Backyard Contest. The contest will award a registered non-profit group with a $5000 grant.

In order for the Airdrie Food Bank to win the money, you need to cast your vote on the In My Backyard website before October 10.

Lori McRitchie, Executive Director of the Airdrie Food Bank said they are currently making 40 lunches for a middle school in Airdrie with the addition of 80 to 100 more for 2 additional schools beginning in October.

"We know that there is a need in most schools, and lunches are a big part of the need. Kids are coming to school without lunches, they don't have adequate lunches to get them through the day."

Each lunch consists of a sandwich, yogurt, fruits and veggies, a snack item and a granola bar that is cooked in the Food Bank kitchen.

"Lunches are costing us currently about two dollars per lunch," said McRitchie.

McRitchie is keen to see this program become funded so that all schools in Airdrie can become eligible for the program.

"Kids matter, and we want to make sure that they're fed and together we can do it."