Cumberland County Schools work to ensure no student goes without food or essentials 

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. (WTVD) -- As students return to classrooms across North Carolina, educators in Cumberland County are focused on more than just academics - they're working to make sure no child is hungry or without basic necessities.

At Max Abbott Middle School in Fayetteville, staffers started the new school year prepared to offer help to students in need.

"Middle school in general is a beast in itself," said Michelle King, a social worker at Max Abbott. "They're trying to figure out who they are, their emotions, who their friends are, and stuff like that."

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King says many students face hardships that go beyond the classroom. The goal is to remove barriers that could get in the way of learning.

"A lot of them go through very difficult situations so young in life," King said. "The last thing I want them to worry about is not having their school supplies, a coat during the winter, or, you know, breakfast or just a snack."

Thanks to community donations, Max Abbott is one of many schools in the district offering students access to a pantry filled with essentials, such as food and personal hygiene products.

"Sometimes kids don't know what to ask for, so we just direct them to the pantry and they can find what they're looking for," fellow Max Abbott social worker Akia Smith told ABC11.

Principal Sharley Ditmore said it's about more than just handing out supplies; it's about creating a safe and supportive environment where students feel comfortable asking for help.

"To not have to turn a kid away when they're having an emotional moment because they realize they forgot to put deodorant on that day and they have P.E.," Ditmore said. "It's definitely just - it avoids things that don't have to be a part of hindering their education."

Ditmore said she's even overheard students encouraging each other to visit the pantry.

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"I've heard conversations between children where one student will be encouraging another and say, 'Just go ask Miss So-and-so' or... 'Oh, I know where to take you,'" she said.

In addition to daily needs, Max Abbott also offers some students food to take home for the weekends if they need it. Staffers are already preparing for winter by collecting coats and even keeping formal clothes on hand for dances and school events. It's all to ensure every child can participate, regardless of their circumstances at home.

"There's so much going on and coming at you in this three years and the needs of being hungry or not feeling clean or whatever - not having the pencil that you need in the classroom - just don't need to be something that hinders a student's success," Ditmore said.

The need for pantry donations across Cumberland County remains high. Anyone interested in donating can contact Cumberland County Schools or a specific school they wish to donate to for more information.