Medford Food Project Shows Appreciation to NMHS Student Volunteers
The Medford Food Project (MFP) is giving $1,000 to North Medford High School to celebrate the student volunteers who contributed during the 2025–26 school year. The donation comes from the Medford Food Co-Op’s Positive Change Grant.
The official presentation is set for Tuesday at 9 a.m. on the NMHS campus. Members of the Student Council will accept the donation on behalf of the school.
High school volunteers are part of the “Student Hunger Strike Force,” which helps MFP grow its supporter network. They excel at connecting with the community and boosting participation.
“The students at North Medford High School have made a huge impact in our community,” said Kathryn Westberg from MFP. “Their dedication and ability to engage with neighbors help us keep local food pantries stocked.”
Unlike traditional food drives, MFP encourages neighborhood-based giving. They provide donors with reusable green bags for grocery shopping. On collection days, donors set the filled bags outside their homes for volunteers to pick up, leaving a new empty bag for the next round.
This system not only addresses food insecurity but also fosters community spirit. Studies show that local giving enhances social ties and trust among neighbors. In fact, a report from the US Department of Agriculture reveals that nearly 10% of households were food insecure in 2021, highlighting the need for initiatives like MFP.
MFP emphasizes the importance of engaging middle and high school students in community service. This not only helps the organization but also teaches valuable life skills to the students. The experience shapes them into more responsible citizens, as community service involvement is linked to better academic performance and social behavior.
For more details about the Medford Food Project, check out www.medfordfoodproject.com.
