This summer, Mercy Chefs provided hot meals and backpacks filled with shelf-stable, microwavable meals, pencil pouches, and handwritten notes of encouragement to children across the country through five regional programs.
We closed out the summer in Portsmouth, Virginia, with the second annual Mercy Chefs’ Back-to-School Block Party on Wednesday, August 12, 2026. Hosted at our headquarters, the event offered free hot meals, back-to-school resources like backpacks and books, haircuts, and family-friendly activities. Scroll below to see highlights from the event!
A heartfelt thank you to all our partners, sponsors, and volunteers who made this celebration possible.
SPONSORS
PARTNERS
SPECIAL THANKS
For any questions on this event, please contact events@mercychefs.com.
EVENT FAQS
How do I find a Mercy Chefs staff member?
We’re easy to spot! Look for the yellow shirts with “STAFF” on them. 
Our Mercy Chefs team is here to help, so please don’t hesitate to stop us if you have a question, need directions, or simply want to say hello!
When can my child get a backpack?
Backpack time is at 6:00 PM! 
Backpacks will be handed out beginning at 6 PM. If you have any questions or need a little help, find one of our event staff members, and we’ll be happy to point you in the right direction!
What’s inside the backpacks?
We’ve packed each backpack with goodies to help kids start the school year strong! Each backpack includes snacks, microwavable meals, a pencil bag, and fun stickers. 
What’s for dinner?
Come hungry! Our chefs have something delicious waiting for you! Tonight’s meal features tender pulled chicken, buttery corn cobettes, fresh watermelon, a dinner roll, and a homemade cookie for a sweet finish. 
Everything was prepared with care in our Community Kitchen and served with lots of love.