Carbon County School Initiates Thanksgiving Food Drive to Alleviate Food Insecurity
Nesquehoning, Pennsylvania — In an effort to combat food insecurity among its students and families, Panther Valley Elementary School in Nesquehoning has established the Panther Valley Food Pantry. This initiative aims to support families struggling to meet their basic nutritional needs, especially critical as economic pressures rise.
Robert Palazzo, Supervisor of Curriculum, Student, and Community Services for the Panther Valley School District, emphasizes the importance of this initiative. He observed that a significant number of students depend on free or reduced-price school meals for their nourishment. “We are very mindful that our families are doing the best they can to support their children, and we want to be there to provide them with essential options,” Palazzo noted.
On average, the food pantry serves between 150 and 200 families each month. However, Palazzo anticipates an increase in demand due to the delay in benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) for November. “We are forecasting a higher level of food insecurity within the community because families may struggle to purchase dinners. With students not in school, the need is greater,” he explained.
To further support the community, the school district is hosting its inaugural Thanksgiving food drive, encouraging students and families to donate non-perishable food items. The focus is on gathering essential items that families can use for holiday meals. “We are prioritizing shelf-stable staples like stuffing and mashed potatoes, ensuring we have enough provisions available for everyone,” shared Emily Hope, Community School Coordinator. In addition to these items, the school is also seeking donations of turkeys to enhance the holiday feasts for those in need.
To facilitate the drive, several donation locations have been established throughout the area. Community members can contribute at various drop-off points, including Will Donor Insurance, Jim Thorpe Narrow Valley Sports Complex, and Mauch Chunk Trust in both Jim Thorpe and Nesquehoning. Additionally, all Panther Valley School District locations will serve as collection sites.
The Thanksgiving food drive reflects a proactive approach to support local families, with distribution scheduled for November 19. As the initiative unfolds, community members are encouraged to contribute, fostering a sense of solidarity and compassion during the holiday season.
This collaborative effort underscores the critical role local schools play in the welfare of their communities, particularly in addressing food insecurity and ensuring that no child goes hungry this Thanksgiving.
