A resource that provides food and other items for Decatur High School students is running low and in need of help from the community.
DHS parents received a letter from counselor Sean Stanton last Friday saying the DHS Food Pantry is almost bare.
The resource currently serves an average of 20 families per week, the letter stated, at an average cost of $20 per family.
Suggested donations include non-perishable meals, soups and noodles, cereal, canned fruits and vegetables, spaghetti sauce/other sauces, peanut butter, creamy soups, oatmeal, jelly, pancake mix, Pam/oil, granola bars, beef sticks, etc. The school is also accepting monetary donations, including gift cards to local grocery stores.
In addition to food items, the pantry provides basic hygiene products and recipes for students to use over weekends and holidays.
Stanton said over the past few years, changes have taken place with organizations the school has partnered with in the past, which had decreased consistent donation opportunities.
While the pantry primarily receives food donations from Decatur Cares and Feeding Wise along with isolated donations from churches and community members, pantry aides are often using their own money to keep the shelves stocked.
“When food donations are not enough, or wide enough in variety, to provide healthy family meals then we supplement by purchasing food through a publicly-funded district account and/or donated gift cards. Unfortunately there are many instances that our food pantry aides are supplementing groceries out of their own pockets,” Stanton said.
Addressing hunger needs is critical for student success. Basic needs such as food, water and shelter must be met for students to achieve their full potential both academically and creatively, he added.
“A balanced diet provides the fuel the brain needs to stay alert, concentrate in class, and retain information,” Stanton explained. “Good nutrition doesn’t just sharpen the mind — it also supports emotional well-being. Nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins stabilize mood and reduce stress, giving students the potential for resilience to handle academic challenges.”
In a high school setting, those challenges can include balancing busy schedules with extracurricular activities and homework.
“Nutrition can be the difference between struggling through the day and thriving in the classroom,” he said.
To partner with the Decatur High School Food Pantry or for other information on how to donate, contact Stanton at 940-393-7209 or sean.stanton@decaturisd.us.
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