ANTON SCHOOL PANTRY PUTS FOOD WITHIN REACH

Teachers in Anton had been buying students food with their own money. A new school pantry gives families another place to turn.

Anton ISD opened the pantry through a partnership with the South Plains Food Bank. It is the second school pantry supported by the organization, following one opened in Seagraves weeks earlier.

School counselor Alicia Ball recognized the need and started asking for supplies. She said the food bank delivered 2 pallets, and teachers and students helped move everything inside.

The pantry now includes drinks, cereals and meals that parents can take home for weekends.

Food bank program director Joe Contreras said an estimated 25.1% of Hockley County students experience food insecurity. Across the organization’s 19 county service area, he said more than 32,000 students go hungry.

“Kids shouldn’t be hungry,” Contreras said.

The partnership puts assistance closer to families. Ball said hunger affects more than grades, describing connections to behavior and overall well being.

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Photo Via KCBD