Weller Road Elementary School hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony Thursday to officially open the school’s new food pantry in an effort to provide support to families in need.
It is the sixth food pantry that has been opened at an MCPS school this school year to provide additional support to local students and families. Weller Road is considered to be a “community school,” providing students and families with additional support in the areas of health, mental health, academics, and extracurricular activities, MCPS said in an announcement.
Councilmember Gabe Albornoz (D-At Large) attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony in recognition of everyone who contributed to the success of this endeavor.
A focus on health and wellness was an identified goal for all community schools based on the feedback received from community members and stakeholders. Community Schools began organizing family markets or food pantries in 2022.
The decision was made to prioritize these markets and pantries in community schools due to collaboration and partnership between Montgomery County Food Council, Capital Area Food Bank, and Manna Food Center. Through the food pantry program, participating schools receive a monthly delivery of shelf-stable goods, fresh produce and/or perishables, and basic necessities such as diapers.
The pantry is open twice a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Photo: © Erin Cadigan – stock.adobe.com