Horizons Students Pack Meals for Those in Need

Horizons students enrolled in family and consumer sciences (FACs) recently spent an afternoon packing meals for people in need. The students were joined in this hands-on learning opportunity by a number of special volunteers from the Center for Academic Achievement. 

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This culminating project followed a week of learning about food insecurity and the social and environmental impacts of food waste. Students also talked about the relationship between poverty, income inequality, and food insecurity, according to Theresa Love, family and consumer sciences teacher.

“We learned about hunger in America and talked about how we could all be one decision away from disaster. It’s important to recognize that we’re here to help each other out,” expressed Love. 

The food-packing activity was supported by Pete’s Garden through the Kids Feeding Kids Program. The nonprofit aims to fight hunger and prevent food waste by collecting surplus food from caterers, restaurants, and food service operations. Volunteers then repackage the donated food for distribution to families in the community. 

The students’ enthusiasm for the activity was fun to witness, shared Diane Mora, Kids Feeding Kids program manager.

“You can see it on my face too because it just spills over to everything,” said Mora. “Even when we were talking in the classroom about food waste and how much there is and how we can put it to good use, they were so engaged, and now they know they can have a direct impact by reducing waste and helping others.”

Students were joined in the volunteer activity by administrators from the Center for Academic Achievement. 

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Hubbard expressed her pride and appreciation for the students and instructors who participated in giving back.

“I think this is a great opportunity for kids to be part of the community and help take care of the community as a whole,” shared Hubbard. 

Horizons sophomore Lyonna Benson also enjoyed the opportunity to serve the community. 

“It makes me feel good knowing that we’re helping other people and bringing a smile to their face.”