West Phoenix High School and Nonprofit Combat Student Food Insecurity
West Phoenix High School has partnered with Assistory Outreach Services, a local nonprofit, to address growing food insecurity among its students. Once a month, a classroom at the high school transforms into a food pantry, providing essential food items to families. Principal Alex Horton emphasized that opening the school's doors for this initiative was an easy decision, aligning with the school's commitment to community support. Adrianna Geary, a single mother of five teenagers, highlighted the significant impact of the pantry, describing it as a 'game changer' for budgeting and ensuring her children have enough to eat. Jon Taylor, President and CEO of Assistory Outreach Services, a former professional basketball player, founded the nonprofit in 2021 and began operating food pantries in January, now running locations in Mesa, downtown Phoenix, and West Phoenix. Taylor focuses on providing diverse items in each bag, including options for all household members.