Community Corner – HPS Community Support Resources
The resource communication center for families affected by the government shutdown and the informational center for the Helena Area on how they can help.
Three Ways to Donate – Helena Food Share Partnership
In response to these uncertain times, we are implementing district-wide initiatives to provide support to our students, their families, and in turn the Helena Area community during (and after) the government shutdown. We have partnered with Helena Food Share and the Chamber of Commerce to expand the impact of support we can provide by offering three ways to donate:
1. Community food pantry hubs at each school location in Helena-
Each school will be a food pantry hub for the Helena Area community, along with the Lincoln Center, and the Chamber of Commerce. Donated items will be used within each school, the Helena Food Share, and for the Kid Packs that Helena Food Share provides HPS. We will update you on the needs of each school as they arise.
NEEDS: If you have empty egg cartons or an abundance grocery store bags, please include these with your food donations. Helena Food Share will gladly take these items!
2. Helena Food Share- There are a few options when donating to the Helena Food Share:
-QR code to monetary donation page (on left): Monetary donations are always welcome and it helps them purchase items in bulk. They can also stretch a dollar a lot further if need be. HFS donation QR code will also be on reader boards at each school.
-Food donations: HFS welcomes any commercially processed food, including wild game (through Tizer Meats or Montana City Meats for Hunters Against Hunger processing). Here is their current wish list: flour, sugar, canned meals, canned fruit, peanut butter, and pasta sauce. We’re also in need of sliced bread, condiments, and shelf-stable juice. Coffee, tea, crackers, chips, and fresh bread from our local bakeries are also very welcome.
Please bring these or any food donations to the drive-up donation door along Boulder Ave.
-Volunteering: HFS is always looking for an extra hand or two. To learn more, click HERE.
3. HPS RevTrak Donations- consider donating to HPS RevTrak to help cover school meals for kids who are not already receiving support and family is affected by the government
shutdown. You can find the QR code (on right) that takes you directly to the donation center, and the link to the home page HERE.
We will use one RevTrak donation source and divvy the funds across the district per school need, unless the donor indicates a specific school placement. You can also go to s specific HPS school’s website and find their RevTrak link to donate directly to that school.
Resources for Families Affected by the Government Shutdown and Otherwise
We would like to remind you of the Helena Food Share’s Kid Packs as a resource–
For more information about the Kid Packs, what’s in them, and how to get a Kid Pack for a child:
To donate or become a Kid Pack Champion:
In addition to meals, participation in the Free & Reduced Lunch program helps the district identify students who may benefit from additional assistance with school expenses including:
- School supplies and clothing
- Sports and activities fees
- Instrument rentals
- Field trip fees
- Fees for academic tests such as the Advanced Placement exam
- And more!
Families across a wide range of income levels may qualify based on a variety of factors, including the number of people in your household. If you believe your family may qualify, please apply now, even if you don’t plan to take advantage of this benefit.
Click HERE for to apply.
Click HERE for more information OR contact your school’s office.
Amy's Mess
Amy’s Mess provides homeless families with school-aged children with nourishing meals and supportive resources, directly addressing their immediate needs and helping to pave the way to a brighter future.
THEIR PROGRAMS
Join Us in Nourishing Our Students: Support the School Pantry Initiative
At Amy’s Mess, we believe in the power of community to make a profound difference in the lives of those around us—especially our youngest members. We are excited to announce a new initiative to ensure no student goes through their school day hungry or lacking necessities. We are establishing a Needs Pantry in every school within the Helena School District.
What is a Needs Pantry?
A Needs Pantry is a dedicated space within each school that provides snacks, quick meals, and basic hygiene necessities—free of charge—to students in need. These resources are crucial for students who might otherwise go without, helping them focus on their studies, not their hardships.
How Can You Help?
We are calling on our incredible community to come together and support this vital initiative:
- Monetary Donations: You can easily contribute financially via our website. Every dollar helps us keep the pantries well-stocked.
- Direct Donations: If you’re local and prefer a hands-on approach, you can purchase items and donate them directly to the school of your choice. This personal touch makes a big difference!
- Consolidated Drop-offs: If not, you can hand over your items to me, and I will organize a combined delivery to the schools. This method helps streamline the process and ensures all contributions are distributed efficiently and effectively.
- Spread the Word: Share our mission with friends, family, and local businesses. Encourage them to contribute if they can.
Helena Exchange Club Coats for Kids Program
The Helena Exchange Club Coats for Kids program is dedicated to ensuring that every child in the Helena area stays warm during the cold months. From October to March (or until the snow stops!), they provide new coats and boots to elementary school children in need.
Their program is administered through local elementary schools, with limited items available for middle and high schools, as well as select outside organizations. They collaborate closely with school counselors, teachers, and secretaries who identify students in need and submit requests on their behalf.
The Angel Fund
The Angel Fund is a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting Helena School District children in need by providing essential school items such as clothing, shoes, and more.