King Street Center has served Rice students for years by giving them the opportunity to mentor  young, hardworking kids after school. These are connections that fulfill Rice students’ high school careers, and connections that help the kids grow in their love of learning. As much as King Street gave to them, it was time for Rice to give back.

On Thursday, October 30, Rice held an emergency food drive to support King Street families. Students were informed less than 24 hours before the food would be taken to families in need; parents and students alike rallied to respond.

“95% of the families rely on SNAP benefits,” according to Shabnam Nolan, Executive Director of King Street. However, due to the recent government shutdown, delays are expected to impact the ability of food to get to the tables for the start of November. 

In an email sent to King Street community and its supporters, Nolan identified specific needs. Anything can help from donating rice, chicken, milk, beans, and other non-perishable food items, or donating money to the Basic Needs fund.

“Even with Vermont’s actions to continue SNAP benefits for underserved families, there is still so much uncertainty with the timing of it and exactly what each family will receive”, says Rice senior Josie Chauvin, a mentor at King Street, “Non-perishable food items would relieve just some of the stress on parents right now. I am in my third session with King Street, and I have such a strong connection with my Book Buddy. It makes me so incredibly sad to think about them, their seven siblings, and the rest of the kids not having food on their tables.”

About a dozen students are currently volunteering at King Street, forming meaningful relationships with the young people they work with.

“The government shutdown is more than just a headline,” wrote Nolan, “it is personal.”