Growing up in a low-income neighborhood, I experienced firsthand the struggles many students face regarding basic needs. In my community, all students now receive free lunch, a necessary support that highlights the disparities among children. I vividly recall a Halloween celebration in fourth grade, where the divide between those who had resources and those who didn’t was painfully obvious. I was excitedly preparing to wear a star costume made by my mom, surrounded by classmates who were equally thrilled. However, I noticed one girl standing alone in the bathroom, her gaze cast down and her cheeks flushed.
This classmate often arrived at school with unkempt hair and wrinkled clothes. Her sneakers, once white, were now frayed and ill-fitting. When I asked her why she wasn’t joining us in costume, she quietly revealed she didn’t have one.
The Halloween party was a significant event, discussed all year long. On the day of the celebration, we wore our costumes proudly, parading on the playground while our parents and teachers captured the moment on their cameras. Afterward, we filled up on games and sugary snacks, reveling in the joy of becoming someone else for a few hours.
I assured her it was alright, and I would help. I remember her eyes welling with tears as I dashed to the lost and found, pulling out some items I thought could work. With borrowed makeup from another student, I transformed her into a rock star and saw her face light up with joy. In that moment, she went from feeling excluded on such an important day to being part of the celebration.
Her lack of a costume reflected a deeper issue — a lack of basic necessities, a situation faced by many students. Some children come to school without having showered due to the unavailability of running water or electricity in their homes. Studying wasn’t an option once the sun set; it simply wasn’t viable.
Many peer students struggled with basic hygiene, with some even having to wear multiple shirts for support instead of a bra. One family I knew of lived in a dilapidated trailer with six children and often went hungry. Basic items like a Halloween costume or a decent pair of shoes were luxuries, a stark reality that remains today. According to the National Center for Children in Poverty, nearly 43% of children live in low-income households.
Teachers and educators have noticed this same trend, recognizing that many students lack essential items such as toothbrushes, deodorant, and feminine hygiene products. It’s challenging for students to focus and learn when their basic needs are unmet. If a child is embarrassed about their hygiene, is hungry, or lacks appropriate clothing, their ability to thrive academically is severely compromised.
Many assume it’s due to negligent parenting, but the truth is that a significant number of families live paycheck-to-paycheck. Even with increased minimum wage and job availability, many struggle to make ends meet. Some students arrive at school unprepared, with some opting to stay home out of embarrassment. Older siblings often sacrifice their basic needs to ensure younger ones have what they need.
In response, certain schools have taken the initiative to stockpile essential items for their students. This makes sense since meeting basic needs can be financially overwhelming. A box of store-brand tampons might cost around $5, while maxi pads are about $4. The cheapest toothbrush can be found for around $1, and a multi-pack of socks runs $8-$10. In “food deserts,” where shopping options are limited, prices for groceries and basic hygiene products can skyrocket.
For families who struggle to afford food, personal hygiene items and clothing simply aren’t feasible. Teacher-run closets can be lifesaving, providing immediate access to essential items. Although programs and charities exist, they often face shortages and lengthy application processes, which can be humiliating for children who can’t even brush their teeth before school.
Brewster High School in Illinois has recently set up a micro-pantry in a discreet area of their library, stocked with non-perishable food and toiletries, all available for students. Various student organizations manage the pantry, which is one of thirty-nine in the region, generously donated by a local philanthropist.
At Oakwood Middle School, educator David Parker noticed students struggling with hygiene and created a dedicated space in his classroom. He stocked it with shampoo, body care products, and feminine hygiene items, all sourced from donations from parents and staff.
Colleges are also beginning to recognize their students’ needs. For instance, Harmony University in New Jersey launched the aptly named Harmony Pantry, which provides clothing, toiletries, and food, thanks to community donations and a $5,000 grant.
Reflecting on my childhood, I think about the girl who lacked a Halloween costume. I know a simple school pantry could have been transformative for her. She wouldn’t have felt socially isolated or hungry while trying to learn. She could have participated fully, just like everyone else.
What educators are doing for their students goes beyond kindness; it’s a vital necessity. It teaches children that they are valued beyond just their academic performance. Meeting basic needs fosters a sense of love and care that can create a significant impact.
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In summary, schools are stepping up to address the pressing needs of students who lack basic necessities. From micro-pantries to classroom care packages, these initiatives are crucial for ensuring every child can thrive both academically and personally.
Keyphrase: Students in need of basic necessities
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