Since opening in 2013-14, the district’s GRS Giving Place has helped hundreds of students receive necessities in order to pursue success. Serving the district’s foster care and homeless population, as well as students and families who face hardships, this resource runs mostly on donations.
“I continuously pursue additional funding and donations to sustain the means of support the GRS Giving Place provides,” said case manager Emily Jandrucko. “Our mission is to provide basic needs for students in an efficient and accessible manner, promoting academic success. In addition, we strengthen family, school and community partnerships, resulting in positive feedback all around.”
Community support helps students in need receive a variety of items, backpacks, school uniforms and toiletries. Such items were delivered to students affected by the December 2015 tornado. The charitable entity operates through school counselors, who confidentially identify students in need, complete a referral form and ensure that help from campus resources and local charities has been exhausted. Once a need has been established, a custom care package is prepared and delivered to student’s campus or home within 24-48 hours.Approximately 7 percent of the student population—not including those identified as homeless—is expected to receive support from the Giving Place during 2017-18. The Giving Place always needs school supplies, uniforms, socks, shoes and backpacks. Items, cash or checks can be dropped off at the Manuel & Maria Valle Student Services Center, at 720 Stadium Dr. in Garland. A receipt can be provided: Emily Jandrucko – 972-494-8255.