With restructured programs to allow for social distancing and safety, the center had to close its communal snack cupboard
RIDGEFIELD — The Ridgefield Family Resource Center is designed to help Ridgefield students and families in need — and with all the challenges created by COVID-19, the Resource Center has been very busy.
With restructured programs to allow for social distancing and safety, the Resource Center had to close its communal snack cupboard, a popular place for kids to go and grab a quick bite to eat. They decided to replace the snack cupboard with individual snack bags — then added short, positive messages that became inspirations for many.
Director Christine Poppert said, “Snack items are expensive. With students home all day, we wanted to help our families.” Fortunately, they received a large number of snack donations, which allowed them to make one snack bag per person. The card was almost an afterthought, a little message inside each bag.
Soon others in Ridgefield were helping create the messages. “People in the community wanted to participate by providing the cards with positive messages,” Poppert explained. “People have told me that writing the cards to give to others helps their minds stay positive and grateful, and it is something to do while at home during this time.” Soon the Resource Center had many beautiful, artistic messages of hope and support for their snack bags.
The impact it had on the families who received the notes was clear as well. “Students love to save the cards and hang them on their refrigerator, on mirrors, in the car. Some people collected them to make a collage. Parents have commented on how the simple positive message can help them get through a day!” Poppert was glad to see that a small note could make such a big difference.
The fact that the Ridgefield community has supported the Ridgefield Family Resource Center in so many ways throughout this crisis has been inspiring to Poppert. “The snack notes have become a huge hit and are important in many ways for our families. The simplicity of a positive message can often change a negative mindset. My hope is that we can all learn to be the light and love in a time where we see darkness and hate.”
To assist the Ridgefield Family Resource Center with its food pantry and other items, monetary donations can be sent by check, with RFRC in the memo line, to the Ridgefield School District, 510 Pioneer Street, Ridgefield, WA 98642. To arrange to send or drop off cards, contact Chris Poppert at christine.poppert@ridgefieldsd.org
Information provided by Ridgefield Public Schools.
