“The Cheetah Pantry represents the very best of our Charter Oak community,” said Principal Ashlie Thomas. “It’s compassion in action, families helping families and showing our students what it means to care for one another. I’m so proud of our PTO, staff and volunteers for turning kindness into something that truly feeds both hearts and homes.”
“Our goal is simple: to give our school families relief from food insecurity by providing real, healthy meals every week,” said Mickayla Lewis, Charter Oak PTO President. “We have an incredible group of parents who work tirelessly to make sure everything runs smoothly. Their hearts are huge, and because of them, we’re able to keep this going.”
Each week, the Cheetah Pantry provides discreet meal bags to families identified by the school counselor. Meals are packed into backpacks and lunchboxes to protect privacy and ensure no child feels singled out.
School Counselor Mrs. Christy Fatula said the impact has already been felt campus-wide. “Students look forward to the bags every week! They always ask if I know what meal is inside, and I tell them it’s a surprise,” Fatula said. “The backpacks we’re sending home include all the ingredients to make at least three nutritious meals, complete with protein packed in coolers with ice packs and fresh fruits and vegetables. One boy was so excited because Chicken Alfredo, his favorite, was included. Families are so, so grateful.”
With Thanksgiving nearly covered, the PTO is now collecting key items to help cover the longer Christmas break, including meats, fresh produce and pantry staples.
Community members who wish to support can donate food, funds, or prayers through the Cheetah Care Pantry link at https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/cheetah-care-pantry.
“This pantry is about more than meals,” Lewis added. “It’s about dignity, hope and reminding families that they’re not alone.”
