Little Rock school officials are re-launching an effort to collect donations for needy families.
Nonperishable foods and other items can be dropped off at any school or early childhood center in the district, as part of the “Stock the Rock the wRight Way” initiative. The program’s name is a nod to Little Rock School District Superintendent Jermall Wright.
Speaking at Mabelvale Middle School in southwest Little Rock Wednesday, Wright said it’s a direct response to the hardship many of the district’s families are currently facing.
“We know that many of our families are feeling the effects of the government shutdown and the pause in SNAP benefits. For some, this will make an already difficult situation even harder. That’s why this effort is not just timely, it’s essential,” he said.
Nonperishable food items like canned goods, pasta, rice, peanut butter and cereal will all be accepted, as will personal care items like soap, deodorant and period products. Mabelvale Middle School Principal Jasmine Geter said it’s part of the community schools model used by her school and seven others in the district.
“That not only means focusing on academics, but also ensuring that our students and families have support that they need outside of the classroom. And that’s why having a school pantry is so important,” she said. “We know that when basic needs are met, students aren’t worried about food or hygiene, then we can focus on learning and growing and thriving.”
The City of Little Rock has also launched its own food donation program amid the ongoing government shutdown; donations to the “Little Rock Cares” fund will be used to purchase gift cards from grocery chain Edwards Food Giant, which will then go to needy residents.
Families in need of assistance can ask any LRSD staff member at their child’s school for more information on the program. A full list of items being accepted for donation is online at the district’s website.
