New Food Pantry Inside Worcester High School Helps Educators Combat Food Insecurity

Worcester Public Schools has launched a new in-school food pantry to help students facing food insecurity.

The Juniper Outreach Foundation organized a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the food pantry on Wednesday, March 26, at Doherty Memorial High School. The nonprofit provides sustainable meals to children and families in need.

“This pantry is more than just a source of food. It's a lifeline for students who may otherwise struggle to access meals outside of school hours,” said Julie McDonald, executive director of the Juniper Outreach, in a Boston 25 News report.

The food pantry offers students healthy food and snacks, in addition to clothing and toiletries.

Doherty's food pantry joins seven others in schools across the Worcester schools system. These schools include Burncoat Preparatory School, City View Discovery School, Elm Park Community School, Gerald Creamer Center, Lincoln Street School, South High School, and Vernon Hill School.

“The opening of this pantry is a testament to the strength of our community and our shared commitment to the well-being of our scholars,” Worcester Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Rachel H. Monárrez said. “Every child deserves the opportunity to thrive, and by ensuring access to nutritious food, we are helping pave the way for their academic success and future opportunities.”

A Worcester Public Schools spokesperson acknowledged the Fairlawn Foundation for its generous donation, which significantly contributed to the creation of the food pantry.