ORLANDO, Fla. \u2014\u00a0A Conway business owner is stepping in to help hundreds of students who may go hungry over Thanksgiving break.<\/p>\n
After calling more than a dozen schools, Bethanne Baer learned that more than 440 students across the Conway area are considered unhoused or in fragile housing situations, meaning they rely heavily on school meals for food.<\/p>\n
What You Need To Know
\nMore than 440 students in the Conway area are considered unhoused or in fragile housing situations<\/p>\n
Bethanne Baer has collected food for 10 years, but said this year\u2019s need is the largest<\/p>\n
Donations include nonperishable, microwavable items kids can prepare on their own<\/p>\n
Conway Middle School says support is essential for families relying on school meals<\/p>\n
Baer, the owner of Bear Team Real Estate, said she started her annual Thanksgiving food drive about 10 years ago, but this year feels different. The need is larger, and the number shocked even her.<\/p>\n
“It totally sucks,” she said after learning the scope of the problem. “441 is the number we have so far.”<\/p>\n
Throughout her office, boxes are stacked and labeled with the name of each school and the number of students who need food. Baer and her team are sorting donations to make sure every child receives meals that are nonperishable, easy to open and simple to prepare, especially for those living in hotels or without full kitchens.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe main thing we focus on is anything shelf-stable, easy to open, easy to eat,\u201d Baer said. \u201cIf they have to eat it cold, they can.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n
One of the schools receiving donations is Conway Middle School, where principal Joshua Bing said many families rely on campus resources to get by.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe are a Title I school,\u201d he said. \u201cAround 60% of our students qualify for free or reduced lunch.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n
Bing said the school is \u201cthankful and grateful\u201d for Baer\u2019s help, especially heading into a long break.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur primary job is to teach,\u201d he said, \u201cbut we also take care of our kids.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n
The school is hosting an event this week to distribute meals and snacks to families identified as needing extra support over the holiday. Baer will continue making deliveries to more than a dozen schools through Thanksgiving week.<\/p>\n
Community members can donate by dropping off food or by using her Amazon and Walmart wishlists posted on the Bear Team Real Estate Facebook<\/a> and Instagram<\/a> pages.<\/p>\n Baer said even a small donation can help a child get through the break, and that no family should have to worry about food during the holidays.<\/p>\n