The Kearney High School chapter of the Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) is taking a proactive approach to addressing food insecurity in their local community. By partnering with the Bearcat Cares Pantry, the student-led organization is spearheading a series of food and personal care item drives to ensure that their peers have access to essential nutrition and hygiene resources.

Empowering Students, Strengthening the Community

Addressing a Critical Need

The FCCLA chapter has identified a pressing issue within their school community – food insecurity. Many students at Kearney High School lack reliable access to nutritious meals, particularly during periods when school is not in session. The Bearcat Cares Pantry, a vital resource for these students, provides weekly food bags to address this need. By partnering with the pantry, the FCCLA chapter is taking a hands-on approach to tackling this challenge and making a tangible difference in the lives of their peers.

Mobilizing Community Support

To bolster the efforts of the Bearcat Cares Pantry, the FCCLA chapter has organized a series of food and personal care item drives throughout the school year. These drives, scheduled for November, January, and March, aim to harness the generosity of the local community. On a recent collection day at the Grand Central Apple Market, the FCCLA members were met with an outpouring of support from shoppers, who contributed a total of 640 items to the cause.

Fostering a Culture of Compassion

The FCCLA chapter's dedication to addressing food insecurity extends beyond the immediate needs of their peers. By engaging the community and raising awareness, the students are cultivating a culture of compassion and social responsibility. Their efforts underscore the importance of community involvement in tackling local issues, and they invite the public to stay engaged and contribute during future donation drives.

Empowering Student Leaders

The FCCLA chapter's initiative not only benefits the students who rely on the Bearcat Cares Pantry but also empowers the student leaders themselves. By taking on this project, the FCCLA members are developing valuable skills in organization, communication, and community engagement. This experience will undoubtedly serve them well as they continue their academic and professional journeys, equipping them with the tools to make a positive impact in their communities.

Ensuring No Student Faces Hunger Alone

The FCCLA chapter's ongoing efforts to support the Bearcat Cares Pantry are a testament to their commitment to ensuring that no student at Kearney High School faces hunger alone. Through their tireless work and the generosity of the community, they are making a tangible difference in the lives of their peers, providing them with the essential resources they need to thrive both in and out of the classroom.