Mountain Range Helps Families With Our School Mercantile

By Adali V and Aubrey B

Our Mountain Range School Mercantile is stepping up to make a difference. This

school food bank is not just about food, it’s about providing our families with essential

items like hygiene products and clothing. It’s a place that truly cares about our community.

The Mountain Range School Mercantile believes that no student should have to worry about their next meal or go without basic essentials. Studies show that a healthy body leads to a happier mind and better grades, so it’s important for everyone to have access to good nutrition.

At the heart of the Mercantile is a room filled with a variety of healthy foods. Families can get

everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to snacks and meals. The goal is to provide

nutritious options that help us all feel our best and get ready for class.

The Mercantile understands the importance of personal care items. Families and individuals can pick up hygiene products such as deodorant, toothbrushes, toothpaste, laundry detergent, soap, and various other items. They also provide diapers for anyone who may need them. These essentials help ensure everyone feels clean and comfortable.

According to Ms. Ellie Baker, the Mercantile has successfully distributed over 300,000 pounds of food since March 2024, thanks largely to the assistance of SSN classes dedicated to student volunteers. Besides food and hygiene products, the Mercantile offers clothing donations. Whether it’s winter coats or everyday clothing, families can find what they need.

To get a deeper understanding of the Mercantile’s impact, we spoke to Ellie Baker, the food bank wraparound facilitator. “Students and families can come and get whatever they might need, and then I am here to help with deeper levels of support.” Ms. Ellie also mentioned that “students and families wanting assistance can stop by the counseling office or student relations to schedule a time to meet with me.”

Ms. Baker highlighted the importance of community involvement: “We really support a lot of

different populations within Adams 12." One of the volunteers helping out at the Merc is Ariana M, a student who often helps with organizing donations. “Helping out shows me how many people there are that need help and we don’t see it on a day to day.” Ariana shared, showing that even when we don't see it many people need help.

One of the best parts about Mountain Range Mercantile is the sense of community it fosters.

When families come in to grab what they need, they often connect with one another. It turns

what could feel like a tough situation into one where everyone feels they belong and are valued.

Looking ahead, the Mountain Range School Mercantile has exciting plans! Ms. Baker stated

that “We feed around 140 district families (not all of them Mountain Range families) on Thursday during the open food bank, and I would love to keep expanding that in different ways.” She also mentioned wanting students to help create weekly nutritious recipes for families with food provided that week. “If any students are interested in helping me make this project a reality, reach out to me!”

To ensure that families have access to the resources they need, the director has provided flyers with detailed information on how to visit the Merc, which you can find all round the school. The Mountain Range School Mercantile is more than just a food bank; it’s a lifeline for families in our community. By addressing food, hygiene and clothing needs, the Mercantile plays a crucial role in helping us all succeed in school and life. If you know a family that could use a hand, let them know about the Mercantile!