Midway Hills Primary students are working to improve food scarcity in the county through their Little Pantry project.
STEAM teacher Katrina Veal is the leader behind the project and has used the pantry as a teaching tool and community partnership for the last two years.
“The food pantry idea started two years ago with a group of second graders discussing realworld problems they could solve in Baldwin County for a project-based learning opportunity,” said Veal. “Students had to identify an issue to solve, and they identified food. One of my students proposed we make our own version of a Little Free Library for food, which ultimately led to the creation of the pantry.”
According to Veal, Dr. Harriet Whipple donated the food pantry, and Jones County High School teacher Nick Dipaolo and his students built the pantry.
“The community relies on the pantry. Many organizations, volunteers, local leaders, and students have donated food and the pantry empties quickly,” said Veal. “Many people have expressed their gratitude for this resource or inquired about its use. Anyone in the community, no matter if they are directly connected to Midway Hills, is welcome to take what they need.”
Recently, Veal spoke with Fidelis Folifac of Alaha’ Ndem Community Garden about the pantry and about the school garden and the possibility of including produce in the food offered. Folifac donated a box of fresh produce and a small refrigerator to keep fresh produce in. Following that discussion, Folifac helped Veal connect with others who helped to exceed the initial donation goal.
Scott Little donated a large refrigerator to be placed outside beside the pantry to hold the produce and other cold food items like eggs, water, and more. Stephanie Jett with Georgia College & State University’s Department of Psychology and Kappa Eta's were the first to stock the refrigerator with 40 bags filled with sandwiches, chips, fruit, and water. Keith Vaughn will also be donating fresh produce.
“I wanted to put produce in our pantry but with the heat that we’ve had, I didn’t want anyone getting sick. Due to the heat, I was limited in what I could put in our pantry over the summer,” said Veal. “So, after we established the fridge and it was stocked, the sandwiches and donations were gone within 24 hours. I was receiving calls, having teachers inquire about using the pantry, and more, so it was an evident need.”
Veal stated this project has taught her students leadership and taught them about identifying and solving issues in their community. She advised that many of her students will donate snacks or items to the pantry on their own and they continuously help her restock it.
“Sometimes we tend to forget to help the less fortunate. Even at such a young age, they are realizing it’s okay to help and that it’s okay to be in need,” said Veal. “And I think it helped the teachers realize how sensitive kids can be. They have big hearts that want to help.”
The pantry is located at Midway Hills Primary and is under the overpass near the “side parking lot.” Donations can be placed directly into the pantry, or anyone may email Veal at katrina.veal@baldwin. k12.ga.us or call the school to designate drop-off.
“We really need donations to keep the pantry stocked but we also have a greater need for a new pantry,” said Veal. “Our current one is on its last legs, and it sustained a bit of storm damage. We are seeking anyone who may be interested in donating or building a new one to reach out.”
Please contact Katrina Veal if you have any information or suggestions on establishing a new pantry.