William Rall School Unveils On-Site Food Pantry-A Community Dream Becomes a Reality

The William Rall School on Wellwood Avenue in Lindenhurst has something new inside its walls, and it’s more than just food. It’s proof of what’s possible when a group of moms and caregivers refuse to let a dream sit on a shelf.

The William Rall PTA found a grant and asked if the school officials would be willing to apply for a community grant through Stop & Shop and the New York Mets. They accepted the challenge and were chosen for a $10,000 a year grant for food!

The collaboration launched an on-site food pantry on May 13th, bringing fresh, accessible food directly to students and families. The pantry is part of a growing movement across Long Island to embed basic needs support within schools, meeting families where they are. At the center of the effort is a floor-to-ceiling refrigerator, ensuring that perishable food stays fresh and available year-round. The addition of refrigeration transforms the pantry from a one-time gesture into a sustainable resource.

The Mets showed up for Lindenhurst in a big way. New York Met José Reyes joined Mr. and Mrs. Met, the beloved mascots, at the event, adding excitement and energy to an already joyful occasion. Their presence sent a powerful message to William Rall students: you matter, and this community supports you.

Stop & Shop volunteers happily connected with pantry shoppers, providing strawberries, bananas, avocados, and more. Behind the scenes, Principal Farrah McKenna and Assistant Principal Abbey Hunter provided the leadership and heart to make the pantry a permanent part of the William Rall community. School Social Worker Mrs. Kathy Brodmerkel and School Psychologist Mrs. Cristina Tagliaferre will ensure the pantry is embedded in a broader framework of student and family wellness, not just a resource, but a relationship.

The pantry is the result of tireless work from PTA President Kelly McNulty and her board, the Lindenhurst School District administration, and the entire William Rall school community, all of whom turned a dream into something families can walk through the door and use.

How to Access the Pantry:William Rall families may begin scheduling appointments with their school liaisons. Upon completing the first round of appointments, the pantry plans to extend invitations to additional local families in the broader Lindenhurst community. Information on how to access the pantry will be announced later in the month.

Amazing people, Lindy Pride!