On Thursday, March 14, representatives of Care to Learn held a drive for shoes and prepackaged snacks at the Warrenton Rural King.
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An innovative program to tackle the needs of children in the Springfield area schools became a full-scale battle to fill those needs. In 2007, Care to Learn was established by Doug Pitt. His goal was to meet the health, hunger and hygiene needs of students.
In 2014, Care to Learn expanded into the St. Louis area, and a chapter was formed in Warrenton. Allison Geertz, coordinator for Warren County R-3 Schools and the Educational Support Counselor, also saw the need to help area students.
“This is an underserved area with a lack of resources,” said Geertz. “Teachers were giving out of their own pockets to help kids who were hungry, cold or dirty. By alleviating these needs, kids can learn.”
Care to Learn holds two major drives each year. On Thursday, March 14, representatives of Care to Learn held a drive for shoes and prepackaged snacks at the Warrenton Rural King.
Geertz said the donations are divided up by size and appropriate school. She distributes the donations to the teachers who use the snacks in the classroom. There are no income requirements to receive donations. Geertz said teachers and counselors are aware of the program and work with her to meet the needs.
In certain family situations or emergencies, vouchers can be used at Wal-Mart to purchase groceries, clothes, shoes, hygiene items or medical supplies. Funds are provided by donations to the program.
Care to Learn reported in 2023 that more than three million students’ needs were met by its 42 chapters.
In the fall, the Warrenton Chapter will conduct its hoodies and hygiene drive.
For more information visit caretolearn.org.
