Funviralpark A clothing and food drive hosted by fifth graders on the Cambrian School District campus attracted over 500 preserved foods, over 500 pounds of clothing and over 100 pairs of shoes. The students added clothing and toiletries to their collection, realizing that the nonprofit could only bring in non-perishable food.
Sartorette Principal Debbie Stein said: “This is a student-driven voice and choice that supports the education of the whole child. It was the idea of the students and their dedication to make it happen.”
Lozzio said the students’ efforts have gained support from teachers and the school community. The Second Harvest of Silicon Valley and the Sacred Heart Community Service helped the class find local pantries and closets that accept food and clothing, as the organization is still cautious about donating for public health.
To help those who weren’t able to donate to join the cause, fifth graders had other classes at school guess how much food was collected.
Second Harvest Needs Help
The students’ efforts came when Second Harvest called for urgent financial donations as demand for its services continued to rise to near-peak pandemic levels.
Second Harvest needs to raise $25 million by the end of December. Contributions from community members, which make up a large portion of food banks’ operating budgets, were down 37% compared to two years ago when food banks served a similar number of people. The critical government food donations and funding that helped the United States survive the peak of the pandemic have come to an end.
As a charitable food hub for Santa Clara and San Mateo counties, Second Harvest is once again feeding more than 450,000 people each month. That’s more than 80% of his pre-pandemic levels.
To support Second Harvest, visit shfb.org/donate to donate online or call 1-866-234-3663.
