Corcoran High School in Syracuse, New York, is spearheading a holiday food drive aimed at supporting families affected by the temporary suspension of food stamp benefits. The collection of non-perishable food items will continue until November 21, providing a vital resource during the holiday season.
Vice Principal Amorie Green emphasized the school’s commitment to ensuring that students can concentrate on their education without the added stress of food insecurity. In an email to local media outlet syracuse.com | The Post-Standard, Green stated, “Our goal is to ensure that students can focus on their education and success and not where their next meal will come from.”
The initiative was inspired by concerns raised by staff and students regarding the impact of the ongoing government shutdown on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Although a recent judicial decision mandated the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to partially fund SNAP benefits, the specifics of this funding remain unclear. Some students have expressed anxiety about having enough food for Thanksgiving, prompting the school to take action.
Donation Details and Community Support
Corcoran High School is seeking donations of items such as microwave rice, pop-tab cans, instant mashed potatoes, seasonings, and boxed pasta. Items that do not require additional ingredients like eggs or milk are preferred. The school is also open to receiving gift cards to assist families in need.
Green indicated that perishable items, including turkeys and other Thanksgiving staples, might be accepted later in November. Community members interested in donating perishable goods are encouraged to reach out to Green for further guidance. Food donations can be dropped off at the front office, and parents will have the opportunity to sign up to receive the collected items.
The distribution of food will take place before the Thanksgiving break, ensuring that families have access to necessary supplies during the holiday. Green remarked, “We work with very vulnerable groups of students. We wanted to do something before kids get sent off to Thanksgiving break.”
For those requiring food assistance, syracuse.com has compiled a list of local food pantries, providing additional support to families during this challenging time.
The food drive at Corcoran High School highlights the importance of community action in addressing food insecurity, particularly during the holiday season. Through these efforts, the school aims to alleviate some of the burdens faced by families and ensure that all students have access to nutritious meals.
