The Problem
An important focus of this project is for students to be aware of the socio-economic challenges we have in our community, and to find ways to help address the needs associated with those challenges. We have a large population of low-income families who cannot afford the necessities to survive such as food, clothing, and shelter. Fourteen percent of our population in Benson live at or below the poverty level and over 50% of students qualify for free/reduced school lunch. Many students arrive to school in clothing that is too small because they have outgrown it, or too large because it is handed down from friends or family and they have not grown into it yet. Students wear shoes that are worn out or do not fit, they are not dressed appropriately for the weather, or do not have a jacket, etc. It is sad to see young children go without necessities. We even have students arrive to school without undergarments because their families cannot afford to purchase them. We are also looking to provide basic hygiene products as well.