Community Partnership School Daughtrey Elementary Receives $20,000 Grant from Bishop Parker Foundation, Launching NEW Food Pantry and Providing Essential Support for Children in Need

Bradenton, Fla. (February 13, 2025)—Children’s Home Society of Florida is excited to announce that we have been given a $20,000 grant from Bishop Parker Foundation for Daughtrey Elementary School, in Bradenton, Florida. This opportunity underscores CHS’s dedication to securing vital resources that will nourish children in need, reflecting the trust bestowed upon us by the communities we serve throughout Florida. With this grant, CHS is poised to make a significant impact on the lives of vulnerable families, ensuring that no child goes hungry. Our mission to uplift and support children aligns with the valued partnership we maintain with local communities, affirming our commitment to improving their well-being across the state.

The $20,000 grant will impact the lives of students at Daughtrey Elementary in many ways. The food pantry will be dedicated to assisting families who live near the school. The Food Pantry will be housed in a portable which has been generously donated by the school district. Another portable also donated by the school district will house a NEW Parent Resource Center that will offer a variety of services to help families, such as nutrition and parenting classes. The portables will be conveniently located close to MCR School Based Health Clinic.

 

“We are immensely grateful for the generous $20,000 grant from the Bishop Parker Foundation,” stated Summer Pfeiffer, Vice President & Executive Director. “This funding empowers us to establish a new food pantry, which will play a crucial role in supporting children and families facing food insecurity. Together, we are excited to create a nurturing environment where every child has access to nutritious meals and the resources they need to thrive.”

The Community Partnership Schools (CPS) model, which CHS co-founded with the University of Central Florida (UCF), has proven to improve student behavior, increase academic gains and graduation rates, and enhance parental involvement. This model supports the overarching goal of breaking the cycle of generational poverty and is based on four pillars: integrated wellness support, expanded learning time, family and community engagement, and collaborative leadership. By utilizing this approach, CHS aims to provide equitable opportunities and success for all students.

The significance of this recognition is paramount for the success of non-profit organizations like CHS. The funding from the Bishop Parker Foundation constitutes a critical investment in community-driven solutions that tackle urgent issues affecting children and families. The combined resources of the food pantry, hygiene products, and parent resource center will benefit not only students but also their families and others residing in the community. These initiatives are essential in fostering a supportive environment for the surrounding areas.

CHS can directly contribute to enhancing family stability and mitigating food insecurity within these communities. This support enables CHS to implement valuable programs that uplift and empower those in need.