Support Families
Health costs, daycare, and reduced work hours take a toll on young families. Things are getting even harder this fall. SNAP (foodstamp) rules are tightening as grocery prices rise. Beginning Nov 1st, SNAP will be suspended until the shutdown ends, too.
Schools are an easy way to help. Ask to pay off an overdue lunch bill or donate supplies to a classroom on behalf of a struggling family.
How to do it:
Some schools don’t feed students with an overdue lunch bill, or give them a cold alternative to “motivate” them. The shame can last a lifetime. If your school still does this, call the office and ask to pay off as many overdue bills as you can afford, and then go to your next school board meeting and tell them to feed all hungry children.
Due to budget cuts, many classes expect parents to donate supplies through the year. When the class runs out of tissues or snacks, families step up. Call the PTA or school office to donate materials on behalf of a family of the teacher’s choice. They know who is struggling. Ask to receive the same supply guidance a family would — there may be food restrictions like “no peanuts” or details like crayon-pack size to adhere to.
