On the third Wednesday of every month, the Westmoreland County Food Bank welcomes a group of high-school student volunteers from Derry Area High School. For a school like Derry Area High School, where the student body sees turnover every four years, some may wonder about the history and origins of this volunteer program. 

Ms. Smolleck sheds light on its inception, saying, “It actually started with Mr. McCleary. He discovered that the food bank in Derry needed volunteers, and he began organizing groups of students willing to lend a hand.”

Ms. Smolleck has been overseeing this program, along with the K.I.N.D closet, for several years. The dual responsibility of running both initiatives can be demanding. 

However, when asked if she still finds satisfaction in managing these programs, Smolleck responded affirmatively, “I do! It’s a lot of work. People may not realize the coordination involved with the food pantry director in Derry, setting dates, and arranging transportation. But I enjoy spending time with everyone outside of school, in a different capacity. It allows me to get to know you all better.”

The Westmoreland Food Bank’s website provides insights into the program’s impact, revealing that it distributed approximately 5.5 million pounds of food in 2022. Out of the 40 Westmoreland Food Bank locations spread across the county, the Derry location plays a significant role. 

“I’m not certain about the exact poundage for Derry, but the food pantry alone supplies nearly 300 boxes of food items, not including essentials like milk, eggs, bread, fruits, and vegetables,” says Smolleck. “So, we’re talking about approximately 300 boxes’ worth, and each box contains around 24 food items.”

In a world where the effectiveness of food pantries is often questioned regarding their impact on low-income families, the homeless, and senior citizens, Mrs. Smolleck emphasizes that the Derry Area Food Bank does indeed make a difference. 

The volunteer efforts of Derry Area High School students at the Westmoreland County Food Bank continue to make a substantial impact on the local community, providing vital support to those facing challenges in accessing essential food resources.

“The number of people who come in, whether for themselves or loved ones, is significant,” says Smolleck. “We assist numerous seniors who are physically unable to access stores or the food pantry.”

“We are not only helping those in need of financial support but also those lacking the means to procure essentials.”