Backpack program, Comfort Closet coming to PCHS

By Shari Friedel

Grant Tribune-Sentinel

Perkins County Junior/Senior High is offering two new opportunities for families and students.

backpack program

The backpack program, which provides families with extra groceries over the weekend, and has been in use at the elementary for several years, will be extended to include families of middle and high school students.

The proposed backpacks may include mac and cheese bowls, a card for a gallon of milk, cereal, bread, fruit cups, granola bars, pudding cups, lunch meat and vegetables.

Alternate foods may include microwavable shelf-friendly meats, peanut butter, jelly, gelatin cups, fruit snacks and toaster pastries. Groceries will be purchased locally.

All families of middle and high school students will be receiving letters to be returned with their requests and other information. 

comfort closet

A new offering, the Comfort Closet, has also been created to assist students with anything they may need during the school day or at home.

The closet will be located in the school psychologist’s office, and will be open to any student.

Coordinators plan to stock the closet with clothing and hygiene products, winter wear, non-perishable snacks and even towels, bedding and blankets.

An example given was if a student would happen to spill on their clothing during lunch, they would not have to go the rest of the day with soiled clothing. 

Organizers of the programs are Nicole Long, TeamMates director and assessment coordinator; Alecia Einspahr, guidance counselor; Shalee Pollard, school psychologist; and Val Foster, school board member.

The team hopes to ease some of the financial strain on families who may need assistance as well as make the school day more comfortable for students..

“We are excited to be providing these opportunities to our students,” said Einspahr.

The team hopes to have both programs up and running before Christmas.

Businesses and individuals in the community are encouraged to support these programs financially or with gently used items for the closet. Questions may be directed to any of the organizers by calling the high school at 352-4735.