Resources for extended school breaks

As our schools prepare for the first two extended breaks of the school year – Thanksgiving Break, Nov. 22-24, and Winter Break, Dec. 25-Jan.5) – we wanted to share some community resources that families may find useful.

Since 2014, Second Harvest and At The Core have partnered to send food home from school with students who are experiencing food insecurity through Bite2Go, which distributes nearly 300,000 food kits annually kits at schools in eastern and central Washington, as well as north Idaho.

Bite2Go is available at all Spokane Public Schools. Teachers and counselors identify students who would benefit from the program. 

“There is no formal sign-up process because we have found that consent forms are a barrier to getting kids the food they need,” said Steve Durham, 2nd Harvest vice president of Philanthropy.

Bite2Go distribution dates at SPS elementary schools are Wednesdays and every other Tuesday at SPS middle and high schools (except during school breaks). Find a calendar at Bite2Go Partner Resources, or talk to your school’s counselor for more information.

When school isn’t in session, families can enter their zip code at Food Near Me to find nearby food pantries and meal sites.

There are many other areas of need for families, especially during the winter holiday season. Here are a few ways to both give and get support:

• SPS HEART Git Card Drive, Nov. 15-Dec. 11, for unaccompanied youth who lack a fixed, regular and adequate nighttime residence
  
  
• Spark Central is hosting a Friends’ Feast on Tuesday, Nov. 21, with KSPS
  
  
• The Fig Tree and United Way of Spokane County have compiled a list of Thanksgiving Meals and Holiday Giving & Events
  
  
• Sign up to receive a to-go meal through Tom’s Turkey Drive, while supplies last
  
  
• Find links to nonprofits and agencies that provide support with food and clothing banks, utility assistance, housing and shelters, health services, family support, and much more through The Fig Tree
  
  
• Community Resources and Services compiled by City of Spokane, including a Pocket Guide and Resources for Youth
  
  
• Spokane Neighborhood Action Partners help connect community members to housing resources including energy assistance and weatherization improvements

Please note that most of these resources are coordinated by organizations outside of SPS. Please direct any questions to the organizers through the included links.