The Gilbert High School Food Market
The Food Market at Gilbert High School is an amazing resource right here on our campus where students and families can access free food. During these challenging times, it is more important than ever to support one another. As time marches forward, we hope to grow the market to better serve the needs of our community.
A hidden resource, unfortunately, many students and families do not know about the market. Because it is tucked away behind a wall, students often walk past it without realizing it is there. We want to change that and ensure everyone knows this resource is available to them. Perhaps a more visible banner could be display on both sides of the building.
How to access the market if you or your family would like to participate, getting started is easy. Simply go to the Family Center, which is adjacent to the market in the same building, and ask for Erica Hernandez, Community Schools Coordinator.
You may remember that info fliers were distributed during orientation, and emailed to students and families. The details include, instructions to complete a registration form. Market “shoppers” will need to fill out that registration form. This document helps us understand the community’s needs and manage the inventory. While there are limits on how many items can be taken to ensure fairness for everyone, there is always enough provided to be a big help to your family.
Hours of operation once you are registered, you will be given specific details, but general hours for food distribution are Wednesdays from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, and Thursdays from 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM. It is suggested that shoppers arrive within at least thirty minutes prior closing times.
A note on safety and community: Currently, El Mercadito volunteers have noticed fewer people are visiting the market. It is fair to say that real fears regarding current events and immigration enforcement (ICE) may be preventing families from publicly seeking help. The overarching goal of Gilbert High School is to support you, the school community.
At the time of this reporting, I reflect on the time I volunteered in El Mercadito with Mr. Laningham’s class last semester. My experience left me with a very pleasant memory. It allowed me to develop my speaking and social skills while serving my school community. I value this experience and also want to ensure all of you readers that the market is safe, and we must not allow fear to prevent our students and families from getting the food they need.
