Pocahontas Community School District Will Receive Power Snack Coupons

posted on Friday, November 22, 2019

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“When students come to school hungry, they are more distracted and struggle to focus because their basic needs haven’t been met,” said Katie Farrell, teacher at Pocahontas Area All Star-T Preschool. “Having a full belly is key for the brain and body being able to function effectively.”

According to the Food Bank of Iowa, 1 in 5 children do not have enough food. To support ongoing hunger-relief efforts in Pocahontas and surrounding communities, Iowa Select Farms and the Deb and Jeff Hansen Foundation delivered 200 Power Snack coupon booklets and pork sticks earlier today.

“Protein is a big provider of energy for children,” said Brett Johnson, At-Risk Specialist for PAC. “It provides vital minerals and vitamins that are very important in the diets of young, developing students.”

Students enrolled in the Program will receive Power Snack coupon booklets four times throughout the school year, most commonly before extended weekend and holiday breaks when they no longer have access to breakfast and lunch at school.

“We are so excited about these coupons because it’s just another step that we can take to support our students and their families,” said Katie. “It shows that we are concerned and here to help them through tough times.”

In total, 50 students in the Pocahontas Community School District will receive Power Snack Coupons—a contribution valued at $1,600 and enough supplies to make 2,400 ham sandwich “Power Snacks”.

“These coupons are a big help for students, especially on the weekend,” continued Bret. “It’s enabled them to get to local stores and purchase food for themselves. It’s a huge help.”

“I’ve had families thank me for providing these coupons when they were going through a difficult time,” echoed Katie. “They said they felt supported and felt that we truly cared about their well-being.”