Upon noticing the shortage of basic care items available for distribution to students and families, Jesse Waterman, art teacher at Roscommon Area Public Schools (RAPS), established the RHS Pantry in 2020.
The goal of the RHS Pantry is to provide students and their families with basic care items free of judgment. The pantry, solely funded by community donations and grants, is stocked with items such as shampoo, laundry soap, blankets, socks, shaving supplies, sanitary products, and more. RAPS students have confidential access to the pantry anytime, whether their families are experiencing financial hardship, a tragedy, or illness. The pantry benefits students by providing them with items essential to living a safe, clean, and healthy life. Having their basic needs met allows them to focus on learning, which increases their chance to succeed.
Because of the grant awarded by RCCF, the pantry is able to remain stocked through the rest of the school year. The pantry, previously serving only RHS, is now distributing to all three schools in the RAPS district. In addition, students have been accessing the pantry more frequently. “The RHS Pantry is not possible without community support and donations. The students at RAPS will benefit from your generosity for the remainder of this school year,” Jesse Waterman said. RCCF is honored to support the RHS Pantry as it supports students and their families.
