Al's Outreach Outtakes

Once again the kids at our own Holy Trinity school reminded me “Be careful what you ask for!”. A few months ago I was asked by the school to provide a list of food items that could be used at the Food Closet. Annually the kids have a contest to see which one of the classes can bring in the most food. Once again they did not disappoint! Soup, tortillas, mac ‘n cheese cups and so much more. All items that will be appreciated by the families who come to the Food Closet throughout the summer. While I am not sure which class brought in the most, I do know that the Food Closet was the winner and that all of the students, parents and teachers are champions! Thank you all for the support you provide to the Food Closet through this event each year. You are making a difference!
 
Now that summer is here, it is important to remember that hunger does not take a break just because the kids do. In fact, it is more critical that we be here for the families as many of the kids will no longer have a steady breakfast and lunch available to them. Alarmingly, based on the most recent statistics available on the Beaverton School District website, 36% of all students qualify for access to Free and Reduced meals. Some of the schools we provide back packs to have numbers that are even higher including Barnes at 66% and Beaver Acres at 58%. While many of the schools become summer meal sites, where anyone under 18 years of age can obtain a free meal, transportation to the sites can become an issue. Thanks to your generosity, our Food Closet will be well stocked so as to insure any who come receive the food assistance they need. Thank you for your on-going support. Please pray for all of those dealing with food and housing insecurity that they might receive the support they need to address life’s basic needs.