Community helps Port Charlotte school feed kids over spring break

PORT CHARLOTTE, Fla. — Peace River Elementary School in Charlotte County is rallying to support families in need as spring break approaches. With students about to go on a two-week break, some parents have expressed concerns about providing meals during this period.

The staff at Peace River Elementary understands the challenges that come with the break.

"We're a year-round school, so we have a two-week intersession," said Sandi Currier and Cari Hooper, social worker and counselor at the school.

"They're out two weeks, and they are just on their own," Currier and Hooper said.

To address this need, the school has partnered with community supporters.

"Carrie is a member of our auxiliary, and she needed some help. So we decided that because the children go out for a two-week break, we would give them peanut butter and jelly," said Rosalie Guyette, First Vice of the American Legion Auxiliary Post 110.

The auxiliary donated more than 130 jars of peanut butter and jelly, along with bread, to help feed families.

The Harry Chapin Food Bank is also contributing by providing fresh fruits and vegetables. Volunteers have been busy packing boxes to create a resource for parents.

"We always tell our parents, they can really come anytime if they feel that they need something," Currier and Hooper explained.

The school pantry is a crucial resource, offering food, clothes, and school supplies to families in need.

"The Harry Chapin comes once a month. They deliver. We're now getting produce as well as getting miscellaneous types of foods that people can use," Currier and Hooper said.

The auxiliary's support extends beyond food, providing school supplies, socks, underwear, and Christmas gifts.

"Our children collect for Veterans Day. They collect change every Veterans Day, and we've donated. Our kids have donated back to the American Legion in the last three years, just over $3,000 so it is a big circle, and we promote that with our families. We let them know we're helping each other," Currier and Hooper said.