As you may know, with the current government shutdown, supplemental SNAP benefits may expire on November 1. We want to ensure every family is aware of the support available within our community, should you need it.
For Families Needing Support - If your family is in need of food assistance, please know that help is available:
Free and Reduced School Meals: School meals are not affected by the shutdown. If your family is already approved for low-cost meals, that will continue for the rest of the school year. If the federal shutdown has impacted you, or if your household income has changed for any reason, we strongly encourage you to apply for free and reduced-price school meals. You can complete the confidential application at www.schoolcafe.com/stillwaterps.
Our Daily Bread: Our community food bank, Our Daily Bread, is the primary resource for families in Stillwater needing food support. If you have already used your monthly allotment and are facing an emergency, you can contact them to request an emergency food bag.
Food Sacks: Several of our sites offer a food sack program through the generosity of local groups. While many sites may be at capacity to provide support, check with your school office if this is a service you may need.
Transportation:
If transportation is a barrier to accessing Our Daily Bread, please contact our Family Support Services (FSS) office. We have OSU bus passes available.
If income changes limit your ability to provide transportation for school and you need to request bus service, you may do so here.
Additional Help: Resilient Payne County maintains a list of local resources and can help connect you with other services. You can also dial 211 to receive more information on food banks and other resources.
Our district is also working to stock our Pioneer Pantries at school sites with snacks for students and, when possible, assembling food sacks for families to take home. Please remind your students that this service is available to help ensure they have the nutrition they need to learn and grow.
Additionally, we realize some students may be experiencing increased anxiety or concern during this time; know that counseling resources are available for anyone who needs them. Please don’t hesitate to contact your school office for assistance for your child.
How You Can Help - Many in our community have asked how they can support our students and their families. If you are in a position to contribute, your generosity would be greatly appreciated.
Donate Funds: Financial contributions allow our Family Support Services team to purchase food and other essential items in bulk. You can donate directly online here.
Donate Food Items: We are accepting donations of non-perishable food items to stock our Pioneer Pantries and take home food sacks. High-protein snacks are especially helpful, such as peanut butter crackers, granola bars, beef sticks, and trail mix. Items can be dropped off at the SPS Administration Building at 314 S. Lewis St.
For any questions about receiving support or making a donation, please contact Natalie Brown, Family and Student Resource Specialist, at nbrown@stillwaterschools.com or Amon LeRoy, School-Based Specialist, at aleroy@stillwaterschools.com.
Thank you,
Tyler Bridges Superintendent Stillwater Public Schools
