Empowering Youth: Coeur d'Alene High School Soccer Team Gives Back to the Community

In a heartwarming display of community spirit, the varsity soccer team of Coeur d'Alene High School recently joined forces with the Canvas Food Pantry to make a difference in the lives of local families. This collaborative effort not only fostered a sense of camaraderie among the players but also shed light on the pressing issue of food insecurity within their school district.

Unlocking the Power of Teamwork: Coeur d'Alene High School Soccer Players Tackle Hunger

Building Community Beyond the Field

The boys of Coeur d'Alene High School's varsity soccer team demonstrated their commitment to their community by partnering with the Canvas Food Pantry on a meaningful project. Eight players, accompanied by their coach, Robbie Harmelink, gathered non-perishable food donations and embarked on a tour of the pantry's facilities. This initiative was further bolstered by the participation of their counterparts from Post Falls High School, showcasing the power of collaboration in addressing the needs of families within their school districts.

Promoting Healthy Eating Habits

The Canvas Food Pantry's partnership with Eat Smart Idaho, a program dedicated to providing education and fostering environmental changes to support low-income families, was a crucial aspect of this endeavor. Shelly Johnson, a nutrition professor with the University of Idaho Extension and an administrator for Eat Smart Idaho, emphasized the importance of offering healthy food options in pantries. By prioritizing nutrient-dense foods, the program aims to empower families to make informed choices and reduce the need for multiple visits to different pantries.

Addressing the Prevalence of Food Insecurity

According to the data shared by Shelly Johnson, a staggering 40 to 50% of the students in the school district come from low-income families, and an estimated 300 of these children are classified as homeless. This sobering statistic underscores the pressing need for initiatives like the one undertaken by the Coeur d'Alene High School soccer team. Nicole Simon, the mother of one of the players, urged the team to understand the reality faced by their peers, reminding them that they likely know someone at school who relies on such programs.

Fostering Empathy and Community Engagement

The experience left a lasting impact on the soccer players. Cason Pintler, a senior and team captain, expressed the significance of the team's involvement, stating, "It was a good thing to do as a team, and to see and understand was other people go through." His teammate, Nathan Simon, also a senior and team captain, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of giving back to the community.The Coeur d'Alene High School soccer team's collaboration with the Canvas Food Pantry exemplifies the power of youth-led initiatives in addressing pressing social issues. By leveraging their collective energy and compassion, these young athletes not only strengthened their team's bond but also made a tangible difference in the lives of families facing food insecurity. This inspiring story serves as a testament to the transformative potential of community-driven efforts and the remarkable impact that can be achieved when young people are empowered to make a difference.