Francis Howell Students Donate Time to Salvation Army Food Pantry

By: Danni Eickenhorst, Salvation Army Midland Division

Once a month, Tracy Graham brings her students from Francis Howell High School with developmental disabilities to the to volunteer some time in the food pantry.

“I wanted our students to gain experience volunteering, because while they may not be able to get a job, they can volunteer. The volunteer experience may also help them a job in the future,” says Graham, noting that volunteering can help the students understand their ole in the community, and give them a sense of accomplishment. “Volunteering helps them understand their role in the community. Our students enjoy being productive. This will help to ensure that they have a meaningful and purposeful life.”

The students sort cans, check for expiration dates on donations, and ensure that donated goods are dent-free and safe for distribution. The effort helps students apply their reading and writing skills in a real-life setting, while also teaching them life skills associated with checking expiration dates on their own food, sorting and stacking principles and more.

The initiative, Graham hopes, will not only prove to the students what they are capable of, but also to those who may observe them at work.

“When given the opportunity, our students will exceed your expectations. They want to work. They want to be challenged. They like to learn new things. They have the same dreams and goals that everyone does. At first, they may need a little extra help, but once they understand the job, they are very reliable and consistent and take great pride in the work they do.”

For more information on The Salvation Army in Missouri and Southern Illinois, please visit the website.