Student-led ‘Weekend Bag’ initiative expands to serve hundreds across county

The Sparta Township Board of Education opened its public session on November 20 with an inspiring presentation from local student leaders working to combat food insecurity throughout Sussex County.

Magdalen Costello, president of The Weekend Bag Inc., addressed the Board of Education to share the impact and growth of the program she founded with her sisters, Isobel and Olivia. The Costello sisters created the nonprofit several years ago after realizing that many of their high school peers were going home on weekends without reliable access to food or hygiene products. Despite free and reduced lunch programs, they noted that many students still faced significant shortages once school meals were unavailable.

What began with only 28 students receiving weekend bags has grown into a countywide effort now serving 30 schools and providing support to nearly 430 students every week in Sussex county. Costello reported that all five Sparta schools now participate, receiving 56 bags weekly.

Magdalen’s mother, Dawn Costello, then spoke about the organization’s newest initiative: Beyond the Weekend Bag. She explained that the expansion allows schools to visit their Newton warehouse to pick up supplies and create a space for students to assemble bags within their own buildings. Dawn emphasized that the program remains entirely unfunded, run as she phrased it “by the seat of their pants.” The goal is to continue meeting rising needs while encouraging greater local involvement.

The Costellos also introduced Abigail, a Sparta student now involved with the organization. Looking ahead, the team plans to connect with Sparta High School’s Life Skills Program to help and raise awareness, build partnerships, and engage more volunteers.

Board members expressed appreciation for the presentation and enthusiasm for supporting the program’s continued growth.

Annual Audit

The Board next reviewed the district’s annual audit. A representative addressed a statewide proposal to increase health plan costs, noting that teachers and staff across New Jersey are not contributing enough to fully cover expenses. During discussion, one board member pointed out that Chapter 44, the law governing employee health-care contribution requirements, is set to expire in 2027—opening the door for statewide renegotiation of these obligations in the near future.

Student Achievements

Student representatives congratulated the Sparta girls’ soccer team for winning the Sussex (HWS) Tournament.

Senior striker Adriana Dolinski earned the title of HWS MVP, while goalie Riley Molbury was recognized for setting a new Sparta High School record for career saves.

In football, senior running back Brady Shagawat was honored with the Young Man of the Year Award.

Additionally, Christian Brevig was celebrated for achieving a 959-yard season, and quarterback Shane Hoover was recognized for setting a remarkable school record: 69 passing touchdowns across his three-year varsity career.