R.J. Reynolds High Boosts Student Support with Expanded Pantry for Food, Clothing, and Essential Supplies

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — A newly renovated food pantry has opened its doors at R.J. Reynolds High School, thanks to $20,000 in donations from alumni and local community members. This space, now called the Demon Pantry, has transformed from an unused room into a vibrant resource center.

The pantry is packed with food, toiletries, clothing, and school supplies. It aims to support students dealing with food insecurity, offering them a dignified experience. This initiative started over a decade ago as a backpack food program and has grown significantly through the help of volunteers, donations, and student involvement.

Student Frií Sampson-Young shared his thoughts: “I’ve been to a food pantry before, and it wasn’t fun. You want it to feel like a grocery store. This place is cool. You can try on shoes, check out different grocery items, and just feel normal.

The Demon Pantry also provides essential items that many overlook, such as menstrual products and uniforms. For students, it’s not just a food source; it’s a place that supports their overall well-being. If you’re hungry or lacking clothing, it’s hard to focus on learning,” said Tricia McManus, the superintendent of Winston-Salem Forsyth County Schools.

Confidentiality is crucial for building trust, especially for those who may be struggling in silence. Sampson-Young noted, “Having this be private offers a sense of security. It helps students feel safe in their school environment.”

The pantry’s enhancements honor the legacy of the volunteers who started the original program over ten years ago. As the community evolves, so does the pantry. We’re adapting as the world changes. We’re not stuck in the past; we’re looking to the future,” Sampson-Young added.

In recent studies, food insecurity among students nationwide has been alarming. According to a 2022 survey by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, around 13% of U.S. households with children faced food insecurity. Initiatives like the Demon Pantry not only meet immediate needs but also foster an environment where students can thrive academically and emotionally.

The Reynolds alumni are welcoming community contributions to enhance the pantry further. This growing support highlights the community’s commitment to ensuring every student has access to basic necessities.



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R.J. Reynolds High School,Demon Pantry,Food insecurity,Donations,Essentials,Clothing,Volunteers,Community support