As the school year began last fall at Newton Falls Elementary School, an idea began to take shape. As a response to the impending Government shutdown and the need it would create for students and families, a team of caring staff was motivated to act.
“We saw it coming, and knew our families would be in need,” Newton Falls Elementary Principal Lori Witt shared. So they asked for help from their neighbors. “The response from our community has been amazing!” Witt marveled.
Initially Kathy and Bob Wujcik, organizers from a local church, began a weekly food distribution that supported 30 families in grades kindergarten through five. But thanks to support from local individuals and organizations, the program was expanded to provide grocery and toiletry items for 70 families each week.
Those who have made it possible include: First Church of God in Newton Falls, the United Way, Community Foundation of Mahoning Valley, Newton Falls Pharmacy – on Ridge Road, General Assembly Church of God Ladies Auxiliary, Ohio Tax Lady, Domino’s on Broad Street, Second Harvest Food Bank, Cadle Company, and the Lakeshore Insurance Company.
The program is managed by School Counselor Miss Rebecca Eggleston and School Social Worker Mrs. Kristie Caldwell. Caldwell shared that it’s her first year in the Newton Falls. She marveled, “I couldn’t believe how supportive the community is!” Eggleston concurred, sharing, “We’ve been overwhelmed! Everyone has showed up in the best possible ways with so much to give!”
“We feel so blessed, as we’ve never had a food pantry at the elementary school,” Witt explained. Each bag contains two meal items like soup or pasta, a protein, breakfast items, and snacks, and are distributed on Fridays to help support families when school is closed. In addition, involvement from Newton Falls High School students provides items like books and homemade playdough to make the bags not just useful, but fun.
Witt shared that response from recipients has been heartwarming. “At school drop off and pick up, I hear from parents eager to share how far they make the items go for their family and just how impactful the bags have been. And students are very excited to receive the bags – they can’t wait to see what’s inside.”
“We’re very grateful for the community support, because without it, we wouldn’t be able to support our families in this way. And it’s made such a difference for our families and kids,” Witt concluded. “The support we’ve received has been so rewarding,” Witt added.
She explained that last fall, students took home flyers providing details on how their family may participate in the program. Witt encouraged families who might have missed that information, or whose situation may have changed, to contact the Elementary School at (330) 333-5100 and speak to Miss Eggleston for more information.
