Dec. 20, 2013
By Tara Cavanaugh
Pioneer community assistant Taryn Reid has distributed baskets of food to students and families over the December holiday break since 2010.
This year, Reid is able to expand the program thanks to donations from the Ann Arbor Public Schools Educational Foundation, Pioneer’s PTSO, Chartwells and Pioneer counselor Colleen Creal.
The program is now able to reach more families over the holiday break –– 40 families this year, compared to 27 families last year. The program also offers daily snacks to students.
“Some of the kids who are asking for snacks sometimes have behavioral problems,” Reid said. “It may be because they’re hungry and their attention is gone.”
Reid also plans to distribute the baskets during winter break in February and spring break in April.
Reid originally created the holiday basket program to help supply food to families whose students rely on breakfast and lunch provided at school. During holiday breaks, those families can struggle to have enough to eat.
This year’s baskets included items such as cereal, fruits and vegetables, canned foods, toilet paper and gift cards to Meijer and Kroger.
Reid said she’s grateful that the program can reach more students and families thanks to this year’s donations. “The food, the gift cards –– all these things will really help them over the holidays,” she said.
Related on the AAPS News:
Ms. Reid, this is such a wonderful thing that you are doing to grow and build our community. I am greatly impressed with your initiative and commitment.