Putnam City Families,
We know that the potential disruption to SNAP benefits and the possibility of job loss for some federal workers have created uncertainty for many families in our District. We want to assure you that Putnam City Schools remains committed to supporting our students and families.
First, all students in Putnam City Schools will continue to receive free breakfast and lunch every school day. This program will not be affected by any potential changes to SNAP or other federal assistance programs.
In addition to daily meals, our schools have several resources available to help families meet basic needs:
· Food Pantries: All high schools and most middle schools have food pantries stocked with snacks and hygiene products. Many are stocked through donations and Feed The Children.
· Friday Snack Bags: Most elementary and some middle schools provide snack bags for students to take home over the weekend. For snack bag availability, please talk to your school’s counselor.
· After-School Snack & Supper Program: Most schools offer “Super Snacks” after school for students aged 1-18 years old. If your school does not offer this program, you can attend a nearby PC school that does. Students must eat the snack on site.
· PC Foundation: Penny’s Closet and the Community Fund are available to help with coats, shoes, socks, underwear, and some medical costs. Please talk to your school’s counselor for more information.
· School Counselor Support: Our school counselors are ready to connect families with specific needs to community resources. Please do not hesitate to talk to your school’s counselor. There are several local community organizations available to help with a wide variety of needs.
If your family is in a position to assist, there are several ways to directly support Putnam City families during this time:
· Donations: Monetary donations can be made through the PC Foundation website. All donations directed to help families during this time will go directly to our students in need.
· CareShare Adopters Needed: Each year, the PC Foundation CareShare program helps ensure every child has gifts and necessities during the holiday season. Adopters are still needed. Please sign up on the PC Foundation’s website.
· Support School Pantries: Donations of new, unopened, nonperishable food items, snacks, and hygiene products can be made directly to our school’s food pantries.
Every act of generosity, no matter the size, makes a meaningful difference in the lives of our students and families, and we thank you. Above all, please do not hesitate to reach out to your school counselor if your family is experiencing hardship or if you’re unsure where to begin. Together, we will ensure that every Putnam City student and family member feels supported and cared for so that learning and growth can continue for all. Together, we will “Go Boldly.”
-Putnam City Schools & Putnam City Schools Foundation