Food pantry at Worcester schools a lifeline for students, families
Food pantry started 7 years ago
Many students don't just have a hunger for knowledge -- they're simply hungry, and some schools in Worcester are finding ways to address the problem.
A full backpack can be a week a meals for a hungry student.
"I really appreciate that they are doing this, because I would be with no food," said one student who didn't want to be identified. "There's a lot of people who need help in our school."
Dozens of teenagers use the food pantry at South High School in Worcester every month.
The food pantry began seven years ago.
Principal Maureen Binenda said the pantry is just as important to the school as books.
"Kids can't learn if they're hungry," she said.
At Sullivan Elementary School, the need is even greater.
"This food pantry for many of our students and their families is a lifeline," teacher Mike Lyons said. "We serve a population just under 1,000 students, 1/3 of which have been deemed homeless or living below poverty situations."
At South High School, staff and students are also operating Andy's Attic, a nonprofit clothing pantry giving to people in need in the Worcester area.
"In a typical bag we have two or three sweaters, five long sleeve shirts, five short sleeve shirts, jeans and sweatpants," South High student Kimberly Martinez said.
Fallon Health is providing funding and volunteers for all three pantries.
"To really address health you have to start with making sure people aren't hungry, that they have the resources they need to be successful," Kimberly Salmon, of Fallon Health said.
To help students always keep discreet, students can use backpacks so no one knows they are getting food. And anyone who needs clothes can leave a list to pick up later.