St. Francis de Sales High School Welcomes Hundreds of Families for Holiday Food Distribution
Community Event Brings Together Food, Toys, and Joy
Hundreds of Southeast Side families gathered at St. Francis de Sales High School for the school’s inaugural Christmas Extravaganza, a holiday food distribution event that brought together food, toys, and joy.
A Tradition of Giving
Roni-Nicole Facen, principal of the school, has a deep understanding of the needs of the community. As a former student and now principal, she has seen firsthand the impact that food insecurity can have on families. “When I presented this idea to our students, they enthusiastically embraced it and committed themselves to its growth and success,” Facen said.
A Permanent Solution
The school has been distributing food to community members every month, but the new student-led food pantry will provide a permanent solution to the community’s food needs. The pantry will be operational in a few weeks, and students will be responsible for planning and executing the program.
A Family Affair
Brenda Sanchez, a community member of 17 years, brought her 6-year-old son, Yael, a first grader, to the event. “I think people really appreciate it, especially as parents who might not have the means to get their kids gifts,” Sanchez said.
A Big Shoulders Fund
The Big Shoulders Fund, a non-profit organization, provided boxed meals for families to take home. Each meal contained servings for four people, so families could share a meal, said Mary Kay Ramirez, a retired administrator at St. Francis de Sales.
A Celebration of Community
The event was a celebration of community, with volunteers from Friends of St. Francis and school alumni working together to make the event a success. “It’s all hands on deck, but it’s one of those things that people want to be a part of,” said Ramirez. “I watched a little girl walk past with a doll in her hands, and she had the biggest smile on her face. It just gives me chills because that is what this season is all about.”
A Personal Touch
Facen, who grew up in the neighborhood and returned as principal five years ago, has a personal connection to the community. “I always joke that I don’t have a life outside of St. Francis de Sales but I mean it in the most beautiful way. I could have chosen to go anywhere else but when I got a chance to come home and do this work it means all the difference,” Facen said.
A Future of Giving
The student-led food pantry is just the beginning of the school’s efforts to give back to the community. “I tell my kids all the time in this building that no one is going to come save the Southeast Side. We have to do the work and support the community and our kiddos,” Facen said.
FAQs
Q: What is the purpose of the student-led food pantry?
A: The student-led food pantry is a permanent solution to the community’s food needs, providing a steady supply of fresh produce, meat, dairy products, and other essentials.
Q: How will the pantry be operated?
A: The pantry will be operated by students, who will be responsible for planning and executing the program, including food distribution, inventory management, and community outreach.
Q: Who will be eligible to receive food from the pantry?
A: The pantry will serve the entire Southeast Side community, with a focus on low-income families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities.
Q: How can I get involved with the pantry?
A: Anyone interested in getting involved with the pantry can contact the school or attend one of the regular meetings with the student-led food pantry team.
