Oberlin Schools opens Phoenix Pantry to help combat food insecurity – Morning Journal

On Feb 20, 2022

Ensuring food security is essential for Oberlin City School District – and not just during the school day, but in the evening and on the weekends as well.

In addition to the Backpack Program, which has helped students with food security for a number of years, another way Oberlin High School is making sure students are being properly fed is through the opening of the new Phoenix Pantry, said Oberlin Schools Director of Student and Family Support Services Jay Nimene in a news release.

“We are so pleased that Oberlin High School has had a food pantry for students,” Nimene said, noting that student identities will be protected. “Our students will be able to check-in with Oberlin High School social worker Mrs. Sarah McCall and grab things they need.”

McCall has been instrumental with the start-up of the Phoenix Pantry endeavor by ensuring it meets different dietary needs, the release said.

“The goal is to have food that students enjoy; and ones that are quick and easy to make,” she said.

McCall said she hopes the program will expand over the next few months to include four shelving units.

“It’s important for our students to have food security at all times, and the Phoenix Pantry is one way we can help,” she said.

Additional food programs also will be up and running for students.

On the last Saturday of every month, a pop-up pantry will be in the Oberlin High parking lot.

It will be open to all Oberlin residents from 11 a.m. to noon, the release said.

Food deliveries will be carried out once per month through Oberlin Community Services for families that have opted into the service.

To opt in to food delivery service, call 440-774-1295, ext. 5500.

“All the programs are in collaboration with Oberlin Community Services and Second Harvest Food Bank (of North Central Ohio) to ensure students and families have access to nutritional food sources,” McCall said.