Source
facebook.com
Star News TV
A $2,000 donation to Patrick Henry Elementary School will help put food on local families' tables and support students who may face food insecurity when they are away from school. The school received the donation from Triad Kids Dental through its Caring4Community program, an initiative that supports schools and nonprofit organizations in communities served by the pediatric dental practice.
According to the Virginia Department of Education, 1,252 of the 1,793 students enrolled in Martinsville City Public Schools during the 2024-25 school year were classified as economically disadvantaged, nearly 70 percent of the division's enrollment. Food insecurity is also a concern throughout the community: according to Feeding America's Map the Meal Gap research, an estimated 17.9 percent of Martinsville residents experienced food insecurity in 2023, compared with 12.1 percent statewide.
Martinsville City Public Schools participates in the federal Community Eligibility Provision, which allows the division to provide breakfast and lunch to all students at no charge, regardless of household income. Principal Cameron Cooper received the check, and school officials thanked Triad Kids Dental and everyone who voted for Patrick Henry, saying the donation will make a meaningful difference for students and families who need a little extra help.
Source ref: 294815822133_1646201540855521