The Greene County School District recently received a donation for its weekend food program.

The Grand Junction Presbyterian Church gave $500 to the “At Risk to At Bliss” program that provides students food for the weekend. Organizer Emily Gannon says she also uses these donations to supplement food that she receives on a regular basis from the Food Bank of Iowa, along with having additional items in her office throughout the school day.

“Sometimes either they’re going to practice or they’re going to work after school and one meal at lunch just isn’t enough to get them through until their next meal, or I can’t guarantee that that kid is getting breakfast or even having supper at night. So it gives them an opportunity to come in and make a peanut butter and jelly sandwich or grab some peanut butter crackers and help them focus during the school day.” 

Gannon adds that by doing this, it has turned into a conversation starter for students by providing a more welcoming environment as a school counselor.