LEVITTOWN---Facing hunger can mean different things. Maybe there is no food in the house and no money to buy any. Maybe there’s food, but not enough to last through the end of the month, to stretch the available supply parents may skip meals while kids are given smaller portions. Whatever the reason, hunger can negatively impact a student’s academic performance and behavior. Knowing how devastating hunger can be to student learning and development, Truman High School staff took it upon themselves to establish the Truman Cupboard, which they stock with food for students struggling with food insecurity.
When the high school reopened following the holiday break, teachers were alarmed after hearing several students comment that they did not have food at home. Teachers took it upon themselves to organize a food cupboard for Truman students, which is stocked through contributions from Truman staff.
Although there is a District program that operates to help families in need, this effort is directed at older students who have taken on responsibilities at home. Many are caring for siblings while the parents work two jobs.
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The partial government shutdown and economic instability seems to be fueling demand. Truman English Teacher Natalie Wood said, “I am talking to kids from single parent households who have jobs and are struggling to put food on the table.”
The entire staff has pitched in to ensure that the cupboard is full. Staff checks on the contents and when the supply dwindles, donations start to appear. Wood noted that everyone helps: the principal, teachers, custodians and others. Students recently approached Wood to ask if they could donate.
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The entire student body has been notified by email that the cupboard is available to anyone who needs food. District staff is working on setting up a scan symbol that students can use to request food using their phones.
Currently, the cupboard is feeding 11 students and their siblings. Students need only request food. No questions are asked.
The Truman Cupboard accepts donations. If you would like to donate, please contact Natalie Wood at Natalie.wood@bristoltwpsd.org.
