Poland Local School District donates over 14,000 items to local food pantry

November 16, 2021

Poland Local School District donates over 14,000 items to local food pantry

POLAND -- Upon completing a two-week Canned Food Drive, the Poland Local School District delivered thousands of food items to a local food pantry.

Students at McKinley Elementary, Poland Middle School, and Poland Seminary High School were asked to bring in canned food items and non-perishable items like rice, noodles, dried foods, and cereals. Each school raised about 5,000 items. The high turnout this year could be in part of new marketing ideas initiated by student leaders.

"This year, we made sure that we made a special post on Instagram to get everyone involved," said senior Kenzie Szolek.

Junior High students elected to compete on teams, winning a "dress-down" school day if they brought in the most items.

"I was really hoping Team Infinity would make it, but it didn't matter because the outcome was all good," said eighth-grade student Hailey Canfield.

The district surpassed its goal and previous record by raising 14,780 items.

"Collecting over 14,000 cans is just so amazing. You can definitely go home feeling content and very proud of yourself for helping so many people," said Szolek.

"It warmed up my heart because I knew that I was helping people, and it just makes me thankful for what I have," said Canfield.

Members of the food pantry said they were "thankful" for the Poland students' donations and that "their generosity will always be remembered and appreciated."