The Care Closet at Reynolds Middle School in Lancaster, Pa. recently received a $2,500 EmpowerEd grant from the Horace Mann Educators Foundation to help enhance student attendance, well-being and academic performance. The CARE Closet will be stocked with supplies the students need that they may not otherwise have access to every day. This includes basic hygiene products, food staples and other essential household items to support students who may not have consistent access to these items.
“When any Reynolds Middle School student does not have access to basic items like deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste, or clean clothes, it can impede their learning.” said Lakeesha Bair-Myers LCSW, and certified Social Worker at Reynolds Middle School. Furthermore, “Lack of access to these basics can undermine confidence, contribute to bullying or lead to absenteeism and social-emotional distress. Our CARE Closet allows students to get the items they need without any fear or judgement. This grant will truly make a difference for many students.”
Bair-Myers said the CARE Closet supports 150-200 students and their families each school year by providing these basic, essential items.
Horace Mann agent Scott Lucas of the Educators First Insurance Agency nominated Reynolds Middle School, one of 20 schools to receive a $2,500 EmpowerEd grant this year from the Horace Mann Educators Foundation.
About Horace Mann Educators Foundation
Horace Mann Educators Foundation is an independent charitable organization established by Horace Mann Educators Corporation in 2020. The foundation is dedicated to recognizing and supporting educators in their mission to help every student reach their full potential. Drawing from Horace Mann’s 80-year history of serving educators, the foundation provides grants and resources to strengthen education initiatives nationwide.