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Lawrence schools invite businesses, organizations to 'Adopt a School Pantry'
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Published in Business and Finance on Tuesday, November 4th 2025 at 19:28 GMT by KMBC Kansas City🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
Lawrence Schools Launch Nationwide‑Model Food Pantry Initiative to Combat Student Food Insecurity
Lawrence, Kansas – In a bold move that many experts say could set a new standard for schools across the country, the Lawrence Public Schools district announced today the launch of a comprehensive food pantry program that will serve students at every elementary, middle, and high school in the district. The initiative, dubbed “Nourish Lawrence,” was unveiled at a press conference in the district’s main office and was met with applause from parents, teachers, and community leaders who have long urged for more concrete action on student food insecurity.
The Need: Rising Food Insecurity Among Students
The pandemic has amplified a crisis that was already growing. According to a 2023 report from the Kansas Department of Education, nearly 18% of Lawrence students are considered at risk for food insecurity, a figure that dwarfs the state average of 12%. The report cited increased reliance on school meals, the loss of part‑time jobs among families, and rising grocery costs as key drivers.
“We’ve seen students arrive to class hungry and distracted,” said Dr. Maria Lopez, the district’s Director of Student Services. “When a child’s basic needs aren’t met, it’s impossible for them to focus on academics. Nourish Lawrence is a direct response to that reality.”
The Program: How It Works
Each school will host a pantry that will be open during lunch periods and after school. Food will be donated by local grocers, community organizations, and individual parents. The district will purchase essential staples such as canned goods, dried beans, pasta, and rice to ensure a steady supply. Students and their families can access these items with no cost, and the district will provide a modest stipend to help cover transportation and groceries for families who need it.
To streamline operations, the district has partnered with the Kansas Food Bank, which will coordinate logistics and volunteer training. In addition, the program will be overseen by the newly formed “Nourish Committee,” comprised of school board members, local food advocates, and volunteer parents. The committee will meet monthly to review inventory, assess student needs, and plan outreach.
“We’re not just opening a pantry; we’re creating a community resource hub,” explained Superintendent John Caldwell. “We’ll also offer nutrition education workshops, cooking demonstrations, and family counseling on budgeting for food.”
Funding: A Community‑Driven Effort
Nourish Lawrence is financed through a blend of district budget reallocations, a $500,000 grant from the Kansas Food Bank Foundation, and a series of donations from local businesses. One of the most significant contributions came from the Lawrence Community Foundation, which pledged $250,000 over the next five years. In addition, local grocer “Harris Foods” committed to a monthly supply of fresh produce for a portion of the pantries.
“We’re thrilled to see our neighbors rally behind this initiative,” said Emily Harris, the president of Harris Foods. “Food is a basic right, not a privilege, and we’re proud to help keep our children’s plates full.”
Voices from the Community
Parents have been vocal advocates for the program. Karen Martinez, whose son attends Jefferson Elementary, said, “I’ve seen how hard it is for families to stretch a paycheck in this town. Knowing there’s a pantry at my son’s school gives me peace of mind.”
Teachers echoed similar sentiments. “When students come in with a full stomach, they’re more engaged,” noted Mrs. Lillian Chu, a 5th‑grade teacher at Lincoln Elementary. “It’s a small step that can have a big ripple effect on learning outcomes.”
Local officials also praised the initiative. The mayor of Lawrence, Kevin Brown, called the program “a model for how we can address food insecurity at the local level.”
Beyond the Pantry: A Broader Vision
While the primary focus of Nourish Lawrence is to provide immediate relief, the district envisions it as a springboard for broader systemic change. Plans are underway to partner with the Lawrence Food Rescue initiative to divert surplus food from local restaurants to the pantries. The district is also exploring a partnership with the State of Kansas to extend the program to rural districts experiencing similar challenges.
In the words of Dr. Lopez, “We’re building a foundation that can be replicated statewide. If every school district has a pantry, we can drastically reduce food insecurity among students and, in turn, improve academic achievement.”
A Look Ahead
The first pantry at Jefferson Elementary opened this week, and the response has already been overwhelmingly positive. Students have been picking up items ranging from canned soups to fresh fruit, and the school’s cafeteria staff has been collaborating to ensure the pantry remains stocked.
The next phases will roll out across the remaining schools over the next 12 months. The district will conduct quarterly assessments to measure usage, nutritional impact, and overall student wellbeing. These data will inform adjustments and help refine the program.
Nourish Lawrence’s launch marks a pivotal moment in the district’s history. By providing a tangible solution to a pressing problem, Lawrence Public Schools is taking a proactive stance that underscores the importance of holistic student support. As the initiative expands, it may well become a model for school districts across Kansas and beyond, proving that when communities come together, even the most urgent challenges can be addressed.
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