ND school gets emergency food aid money from national pool

A North Dakota public school is sharing national grant money to help address food insecurity within its student population.

The National PTA says it’s distributing $45,000 to local parent teacher associations around the U.S.

Officials say the recent federal government shutdown prompted real fears about what disruptions to food assistance can look like. That inspired the organization to help schools be more prepared for emergency situations, especially with demand already high.

The Lewis and Clark Elementary PTA in Fargo will share these funds, and the school’s principal Jason Cresap said it’s extra relief that is certainly welcomed by his staff.

“If it can help even one family,” said Cresap, “I think it’s worth it because it is a real problem here in our society right now.”

According to the national arm, P-A’s receiving this funding will partner with local and regional food banks to help establish or restock their school’s food pantry, or implement a backpack program to send food home with students. Hunger relief experts say in North Dakota, about 1 in 7 children are food insecure.

Cresap said this intersects with the mission to put all students in the best position to learn.

“Kids are unable to do that when they come to school hungry, or when they’re at school and they’re hungry<' said Cresap "Just like anybody, just myself included. If I missed breakfast or something, my focus isn't always there - and kids are no different."

Hunger-relief experts say for food-insecure students, the meals they receive through school might be the only form of nutrition they receive on a given day.

Recently, a statewide coalition announced plans for a ballot initiative to ask North Dakota voters whether K-12 schools should provide free breakfast and lunch to all students, regardless of their household income.