For the second year in a row, Hominy Valley Elementary School (HVE) donated more food to MANNA FoodBank’s annual student food drive than any other elementary school in Western North Carolina.
On Monday, Ilsa Kelischek, AmeriCorps service member at MANNA, presented HVE’s Student Council with MANNA’s Full Plate Award. Students collected 2,716 pounds of food, which will be distributed through MANNA’s partner agencies to families in Candler.
“It’s important to make sure everyone has food,” said Nora, a member of the student council. “Everyone needs food, so for people who can’t buy it can get it now.”
“I’m glad that this food is going to local people that need it,” added fellow Student Council member Alexis.
Kelischek said the donations come at a crucial time for local food banks, which have seen decreased donations during a time of rising food and housing costs.
“These kids understand that lots of people struggle with hunger, even kids like them,” she said. “It’s amazing how much they were able to donate. From a young age, they see the value of kindness and compassion.”