A student-run pantry that allows students to take food home is operating at Charles Spencer High School.
The pantry offers a range of food items, from breakfast and lunch options to ingredients for dinner. Toiletries are also available.
School staff say students can remain anonymous and do not need to ask for permission to use the pantry. Students can walk in, take a grocery bag and select what they need. Staff say a steady number of students have been using the service.
Principal Jason Wall said the school is trying to help meet everyday needs.
“We understand that there is a need, and we also acknowledge that the needs in our community exceed our ability to meet all of them. However, whoever we can help, we want to do our best,” he said.
Wall said the pantry grew out of a reverse advent calendar fundraiser held two years ago. He said the initiative evolved into a pantry during the previous school year, after a Grade 9 leadership class wanted to bring the idea back.
Donations are primarily made by students, but Wall said community support is growing. He said local organizations, including Helping Hands and United Way, have begun contributing through word of mouth.
“All of this is made possible because of the generous donations made by our school community and community members,” Wall said.
Wall said hunger can affect a student’s ability to learn and said the pantry reflects students supporting one another.
“We care about kids. One of the most vital parts of caring for people is understanding that we have basic needs that need to be met. If this helps some of our kids be more successful, we’re thrilled about that,” he said.
There is no set timeline for how long the pantry will remain open, but staff say it will continue operating as long as supplies and support allow.
