| Just 3 Things stocks food pantry | |
| WENDY LIPSUTZ Special to Jewish News |
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| When Holly Packer attended a local fundraiser, she had no idea that she was destined to improve the lives of at-risk youth as they transition into responsible adulthood. Seated next to an employee of the Jewish Family & Children Service’s Real World Job Development Program, she learned about a group of youths in distress. When youngsters opt to leave a group home or foster care at 18, or in some cases are phased out of the foster care system, they can become indigent and go hungry. Packer knew she had to take action. In May 2011, she founded “Just 3 Things” (J3T) to provide food items for young people in the JFCS Real World Job Development and Youth in Transition programs.
According to Packer, the J3T pantry can be a lifesaver for youths who need food assistance but are homeless or couch surfing from house to house. Shannon Williams, team leader and job developer for Real World, explains that while the Real World staff works diligently to help these youths navigate the system, there are many hurdles they have to jump to receive assistance such as obtaining food stamps. In the meantime, J3T helps fill in the gap. Some participants visit the Real World on a regular basis for GED prep classes, independent-living skill workshops, work-readiness and job-training skill building. “The food pantry is like a safety net to them,” says Packer. “They know that while they are there, they won’t be hungry and can take food with them when they leave. It encourages regular attendance and helps reduce staff worry about where these youngsters’ next meal will come from.” Since the program began, J3T has grown to provide food and toiletries for 40 to 60 percent of approximately 160 young people ages 14 to 21 from all walks of life. Needs in the current economy frequently outpace charitable donations, but, according to Packer, if each J3T contributor would contribute three food items per month, she could fill the pantry and prevent participants from going hungry. Since many of the recipients carry all of their belongings in a backpack, the food needs to be portable – such as canned food – require no refrigeration, have a current expiration date and be food that young people will be likely to eat, Packer said. “Just three nonperishable food items a month can impact the cycle of poverty.” To get involved, visit justthreethings.org or email Packer at just3things@jfcsaz.org. For questions about the Real World Job Development Program, contact Shannon Williams, 602-279-0084 or Shannon.Williams@jfcsaz.org. |