Education Campus to Provide Resources Where They Are Most Needed

When the Learning Academy opens later this month, it will provide supports that typical students never think about. A Resource Room at the Education Campus will make necessities ranging from food to laundry to a private shower available to more than 100 students whose families may be struggling.

Food, hygiene, and other products will be available through in-kind donations to support children and families. The Resource Room operates on a simple truth rooted in Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs: students who are hungry or don’t feel secure can’t learn and grow. A large percentage of the students at the new K-12 Learning Academy come from families who need this assistance.

“We know we can’t just be educators. We have to be centers of community,” said Build Trybe Director Theo Bunch. “We need to make sure that we’re doing everything that we can so students can come in as their best selves and be open to learning.”

The Resource Room will increase and expand the support we offer. The room includes a kitchen, fresh produce from Build Trybe gardens, and a variety of other food. In addition, a washer and dryer provide access to clean clothes, and private showers support youth who may not have privacy or facilities at home.

“We’re able to fill in all the gaps that they may not be able to get from their home and their neighborhood. If a young person comes in and they need laundry done, we’re able to get laundry done,” Theo said. “Dignity is really important. No kid should have to come to school dirty. Having a washer and dryer and a private place to shower can make a big difference for our students.”

The Resource Room is managed by Build Trybe, Nutritional Health Services, and therapists who will serve the students at the day-treatment education facility. Teachers and therapists will identify students who may need assistance. The Nutritional Health team will package items to be sent home.

“We’re making sure there is adequate space for us to hold and distribute all of the goods,” Theo said. “With that, it is a rallying cry for everyone who wants to support our work so we can help feed and care for our kids.”

You can support our students’ basic needs. If you are interested in donating, contact Community Engagement Manager Lea Loudon at [email protected].