Shawnee Heights High School Opens The Care Closet

Bryce Leidtke, Anne Harris and Mrs. Wilson stand inside of The Care Closet.

The Shawnee Heights High School will be opening a community food and toiletries pantry, The Care Closet, on October 20, 2018, from 8:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. During this time families can receive items such as non-perishable foods, toiletries, and some clothing. The Care Closet will give items as they are donated. The pantry expects to be open every Saturday following the opening date to fill the needs of the community.

The Care Closet was envisioned initially “through Laurie Crimmins and the high school Counseling Department and is coming to fruition with the help of the following students: Bryce Liedtke, Annie Harris, Makenna Orton, and Mackenzie Waggoner” said high school Biology Teacher Shari Wilson. When Mrs. Wilson was left with a little extra time in her schedule this semester she asked the Counseling Department how she could help, The Care Closet was at the top of the priority list.

Anyone who would like to donate to The Care Closet can do so this Friday, September 21, 2018, during the home football game. Items can also be brought to the Shawnee Heights High School during school hours. The wish list includes:

•    canned tuna

•    macaroni and cheese (boxes)

•    spaghetti

•    spaghetti sauce

•    peanut butter

•    saltine crackers

•    cereal

•    canned fruit

•    trail mix (individual packs)

•    fruit cups (in juice)

•    fruit snacks (individual packs)

•    peanut butter crackers or cheese crackers (individual packs)

•    Toilet paper

The Care Closet is open to all families and individuals that are in need. “We want to do everything we can to protect the privacy of our families, so they feel comfortable coming to us,” said Mrs. Wilson.

The mission of Shawnee Heights USD450 is to provide quality education that ensures academic achievement for all students and develops caring, productive and responsible citizens. To learn more visit www.usd450.net.