The Mercer County Food Bank, in partnership with First Presbyterian Church of Sharon and Sharon City School District, has successfully launched a School Pantry program at all three elementary schools, ensuring students have access to food five days a week.

The initiative replaces the previous weekend backpack program, which had a 300-student cap, allowing the pantry model to serve over 500 students across the district.

"We have thousands of kids facing food insecurity, and this program ensures they have a reliable source of food," said Rebecca Page, Executive Director of Mercer County Food Bank.

Mercer County has a childhood food insecurity rate of 20%, which is 3% higher than the state average.

School leaders say this initiative is helping students focus on learning without the distraction of hunger.

"It actually gives me chills to see the community step up to help our students," said Justi Glaros, Superintendent of Sharon City Schools.

The program is entirely community-funded, relying on donations from local businesses, organizations, and grants rather than state or federal funding.