Dear Am-Po school families:
We know there are families in our community that count on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits (SNAP) to provide meals for their families. Unfortunately, due to the federal government shutdown, SNAP benefits will likely be temporarily interrupted, beginning Nov. 1. We understand this disruption may cause uncertainty, worry and financial burden for some members of our school family.
We hope the following information will be beneficial to those facing difficulty during this challenging time:
· Students will continue to receive breakfast and lunch at school, based on their current eligibility status. If a family’s financial circumstances have changed for any reason, including government furloughs, parents can apply or update their free or reduced-price meal application by coming by the elementary or high school office or by logging into their Sylogist account at: https://oked.sylogist.com/AmberPocasset/account/login?ReturnUrl=%2famberpocasset
· Parents can dial 211 on their phones to receive additional information about food banks, pantries and other community support programs across Oklahoma. In our area, the following food programs are available:
o First Baptist Church of Pocasset, 230 S. Washington, Pocasset 405-459-6516
o First Baptist Church of Amber, 308 E. Main St., Amber 405-224-0220
o Chickasha Emergency Food Pantry, 428 S. 6th St., Chickasha 405-320-0248
o Salvation Army of Chickasha, 2402 S. 16th St., Chickasha 405-224-5647
o First Baptist Church of Chickasha, 324 W. Colorado Ave., Chickasha 405-224-5196
o Southern Oaks Church of Christ, 3320 S. 16th St., Chickasha 405-224-1821
o Snow Hill Baptist Church, 11 S. Morgan Rd, Tuttle 405-392-4753
o First Assembly of God, 309 W. Caddo St., Minco 800-786-6478
o Loaves and Fishes of Mustang, 1116 W. State Hwy 152, Mustang 405-376-4538
· Our school team stands ready to support anyone with questions or specific needs. Please contact your child’s school office at 405-224-5768 if we can assist your family. We also have school counselors, at each site, available for students who may be experiencing increased anxiety or concern.
· Oklahomans can learn more about how the government shutdown will affect SNAP benefits by visiting the Department of Human Services FAQ webpage. Those who need assistance and those who would like to support their fellow Oklahomans can find additional resources on the DHS “Be a Neighbor” webpage.
Although this situation is beyond our control, we can decide how to care for one another. Our school team is committed to keeping you informed and ensuring every student feels safe, secure and supported.
Sincerely,
Jason Goostree
Superintendent, Amber-Pocasset Public Schools