Growing up in a low-income neighborhood, I vividly remember how stark the divide between those who had and those who didn’t was, especially during events like Halloween. I recall my fourth-grade celebration where I was excited to wear a homemade star costume crafted by my mother, while a classmate stood shyly in the corner of the bathroom, visibly upset. Her attire was often disheveled, and she lacked a costume, which made her feel excluded during one of the school year’s most anticipated events.
As I approached her, I learned she didn’t have a costume of her own. The Halloween party, which had been a topic of excitement all year, became a source of anxiety for her. After the parade filled with costumes, games, and sweets, I managed to transform her into a rock star using items from the lost and found and some makeup. The joy it brought her was unforgettable — she was no longer on the sidelines but part of the celebration.
This experience shed light on a larger issue: many students struggle with basic necessities. Some don’t have running water or electricity, making it impossible to complete homework or maintain hygiene. For some, even a simple costume, a bra, or a pair of shoes can be luxuries. Alarmingly, 43% of children in the U.S. live in low-income households, according to the National Center for Children in Poverty.
Educators have shared that many students lack essential hygiene products like toothbrushes, deodorants, and feminine care items. A student who is embarrassed about their hygiene or who is hungry can’t focus on learning. Unfortunately, it’s a misconception that these problems arise from negligent parenting; many families are struggling to get by, living paycheck to paycheck.
To combat these challenges, schools are stepping up. For instance, Bremen High School in Midlothian, Illinois, has introduced a micro-pantry in their library that offers non-perishable food and toiletries to students in need. Additionally, Sarah Johnson, a teacher at Maplewood Middle School, has set up a cabinet stocked with shampoo and hygiene products in her classroom, all donated by parents and staff.
Colleges are also recognizing the necessity of providing for their students. Rider University in New Jersey has created a pantry that offers clothing, toiletries, and food, supported by generous donations.
Reflecting on my own childhood, I realize how impactful such initiatives could have been for students like my classmate who lacked a costume. These programs not only provide basic needs, they foster inclusion and dignity. When schools address these fundamental requirements, they help students focus on their education rather than their circumstances.
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In summary, addressing students’ basic needs is crucial for their educational success and overall well-being. Schools are taking vital steps to ensure that every child has access to the essentials, allowing them to thrive in an inclusive environment.