The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, (SNAP), was paused due to the government shutdown. Although the government has issued partial funding, SNAP recipients are experiencing uncertainty and turning to the district and local organizations for support.

“The district has partnered with a couple of organizations, such as Lovepacs, Fastpacs and Frisco Family Services where students can receive support with food and hygiene,” lead counselor Andrea Douglas said. “We help families connect with these organizations to receive those packages, and they can pick them up at school campuses.”

The National School Lunch Program is a way that the district is continuing to support families. The program is administered by the Texas Department of Agriculture, so it is unaffected by the government shutdown.

“You don’t have to be a SNAP recipient to qualify for the program,” Douglas said. “Applications are available on the district website, and it is based on a family’s income and the number of dependents they have.”

Students coming from families experiencing food insecurity impacts performance in and out of the classroom.

“Anytime a student is worried about their physical needs, such as food, shelter, clothing and hygiene, it makes it harder for them to focus in the classroom and to keep that stamina up with classes, athletics and extracurricular activities,” Douglas said. “I’ve sent an email out to our staff to be more aware of students expressing concerns about food insecurity so we can help them.”

There are many ways students can get involved to help families who are SNAP recipients.

“If you notice that students are asking for food, make sure that they connect with the counseling department so they can get the resources they need,” Douglas said. “Donating time and energy into local organizations such as Lovepacs, Fastpacs and Frisco Family Services directly impacts and supports students.”