Peshtigo schools ensure Students Eat Every Day during the summer

PESHTIGO – The Peshtigo School District Students Eat Every Day (SEED) initiative is continuing throughout the summer, ensuring that all students have access to nutritious meals even when school is not in session.

The SEED program is a student-led initiative run by the Peshtigo High School Volunteer Club to discreetly support students and their families that may be facing food insecurities. This program provides meals for after school and the weekends.

Without school breakfast and lunch, the summer can be an uncertain time for some families. However, this program is making sure to continue their support year-round.

“Thanks to generous donors, we are able to supply families with a Lofaro’s punch card for the 14 weeks of summer,” explained Dan Vanidestine, Peshtigo High School vocational studies teacher and volunteer club advisor.

“Each week, families can get pasta, pasta sauce, bread, canned veggies and a pound of hamburger. Lofaro’s has been a valued partner in this endeavor, providing a 5% discount. The manager, Dave Junak, has worked with us to help keep costs down.”

Community support has been a driving force behind the ability to support families.

“The Peshtigo community is a huge part of this program. Donors keep the SEED program going strong to ensure our students never go hungry,” Vanidestine shared.

Many local organizations have donated to the program, including the Peshtigo Lions Club, Peshtigo Woman’s Club, Peshtigo National Bank and many more.

In return, the volunteer club assists with other area programs like the Peshtigo Food Pantry. During the recent school board meeting, City of Peshtigo Mayor Katie Berman thanked the district for their partnership with the local food pantry as well as the graduating students who have volunteered.

The club also runs The Locker, which provides free hygiene items and school supplies to students in need.

“Having great student helpers makes the program run smoothly. Natalie Sparpanic, Nela Sotka, Eva Andrews, Ashtyn Beyer and Mara Inghram were outstanding. They shopped, sorted, packed, and delivered food this year. Jillian Behnke and Addison Hartwig also helped during the first semester,” Vanidestine shared.

Reflecting on the work over the past school year and the summer that lies ahead, he thanked all the organizations, businesses and individuals who have given their support.

For more information on the SEED program and how to donate, contact the Peshtigo School District at (715) 582-3677.