by Areli Hernandez

Due to SNAP benefits being delayed in November following the government shut down, the JHS Food Pantry provides resources for students and families in need. 

Special Education teacher Michelle Houchin, who has been assisting the food pantry, has noticed the impact on students over the years. 

“We started this around three years ago on a small basis. People would come if they needed something quick for breakfast who were unable to get breakfast in the morning or at home. It really ramped up within the past year because we noticed so many students were going without food,” Houchin said. 

To assist students, Houchin along with staff members, work together to provide items for the pantry. 

“Teachers donate stuff all the time and then I usually keep it filled up. The counselors and I, if we see or hear of a student needing food, one of us will make an arrangement to pull a kid and let them pick some things that they need,” Houchin said. 

To ensure privacy, staff members take measures that allow students to feel comfortable when visiting the pantry. 

“We pull them when we know there’s not going to be other people in here and then we just have them leave the food in their 7th period teachers class or trusted person. That way they can swing back and leave school with no questions from other students.”           

Furthermore, counselors have created a Google form that was sent to all students as a way to communicate about basic necessities. 

“We know there are students with needs that may not be comfortable coming up and saying something. The Google form that we sent out is more anonymous,” she said. 

Houchin is moved by the impact of the food pantry and hopes for students to feel welcomed. She also encourages many to contribute to the pantry later during the season. 

“We will always need supplies, we will always need donations, and that it is open for any student that needs help. We don’t want any students to be hungry and not be able to focus.” 

Being able to contribute to the food pantry has been an accomplishment for Houchin and looks forward to helping more students. 

 “This makes me feel good. It’s my small part to help people be better,” she said. 

Other Resources:

Students MUST be escorted by an adviser (all visits are done privately) 

Food Pantry: mhouchin@gccschools.com 

Connor’s Closet:  ssoper@gccschools.com 

Blessing Closet:  mdensford@gccschools.com

Additional reporting by Tyler Conley.