School store helps Horizon East students thrive
December 19, 2018
A middle school store is helping students thrive by providing for some of their basic necessities. When Bell Bank employee Angie Wanzek learned about the store, she didn’t hesitate to help.
SpudMart at Horizon Middle School East Campus was the recipient of Wanzek’s generosity through Bell Bank’s Pay It Forward program, which encourages employees to help others in need.
“It is crucial for student success that all students have their basic needs and supports met to be able to continue thriving,” said Ashley Meagher, seventh-grade school counselor.
Last year alone, two students at Horizon East experienced house fires and several became homeless. Middle school can be hard enough, but for students who go through a tragedy, not having a toothbrush, pencils or clean clothes can disrupt their ability to focus and learn.
The school is helping students meet some of their basic needs through SpudMart — a space where students can “shop” for necessary items such as food, clothing and hygiene products that they might not be able to obtain on their own. All of the items are free for the students.
“Our goal is to help students reach their educational and personal goals by relieving some of their daily stresses,” said Joni Hubrig, school social worker, who helps coordinate the program.
When Wanzek learned about SpudMart from her cousin, who works at Horizon Middle School, she knew she wanted to donate her Pay It Forward funds to the program.
“It tugged at my heartstrings, and I decided I wanted to help support some local kids who are going through a tough time and need basic everyday things, so they can continue to focus on and excel in school,” Wanzek said.
Donations go toward the purchase of school supplies, personal hygiene items, socks, underwear, winter gear, nonperishable food items and tennis shoes, which are highly requested.
“Angie’s generous donation will make a significant difference for many students at Horizon Middle School,” Hubrig said.
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