Episode 8 - Supporting the Unseen: Navigating Homelessness and Food Insecurity in Schools Amid a Pandemic

What does it take to support and uplift homeless students in a school district? Would you be able to adapt your services to a global pandemic, and come up with innovative ways to offer food security and mental health support? This episode introduces two remarkable figures from the State College Area School District: Cindy Sergeon-Smith and Morgan Bechdel. Cindy serves as a home and school visitor and the foster care point of contact, while Morgan is a certified school social worker. Together, they share how they've courageously navigated their roles and adapted their services during this crisis.

As poverty rates, food insecurity, and homelessness rise within the district due to the pandemic, Cindy and Morgan have faced unique challenges with ingenuity. From the implementation of a "Stuff the Bus" event that facilitated direct referrals to the food bank, to the creation of a pantry within the administrative building, their tireless efforts to provide stability, mental health services, and essential resources to students and their families are truly inspiring. They also shed light on their needs assessment, a critical tool that helps them understand and respond effectively to the fluctuating needs of their community.

And what about the power of community collaborations? Cindy and Morgan recount their experience in setting up a school pantry - a task that required not only motivation and courage but also strategic partnerships. They discuss how they involve students and staff in their program from running donation drives to raising awareness about homelessness and food insecurity. You'll also hear about their journey as they thank the podcast team for providing resources to help raise awareness for homelessness and food insecurity. This is a testament to the resilience, creativity, and dedication of educators who are truly on the front lines.

View the transcript of Episode 8.

Resources:

Pennsylvania Education for Children and Youth Experiencing Homelessness (ECYEH)

"I Will Be Your Voice" Podcast

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About Our Guests

Cindy Sergeon-Smith

With 26 years of experience, Cindy Sergeon-Smith is the Home and School Visitor and the Homeless Liaison for the State College Area School District. Cindy’s professional experience has allowed her to become a restorative practices practitioner with the focus on relationships, building community and repairing harm. She strives to be the voice for students and families experiencing homelessness, while establishing a tight-knit community in the district and builds partnerships using restorative practices. 

 

Morgan Bechdel

Morgan Bechdel is a Social Worker for the State College Area School District for the last four years. Morgan is an adventurous, caring, and passionate leader who works to integrate students and families in their communities, build relationships, and create positive living situations both at home and at school. While taking care of students, families, and staff’s basic needs, she is part of an integrated mental health approach in the State College Area School District, where she provides counseling and therapy support to students who are struggling with their mental health. 

Notes
PA ECYEH Awareness Week Campaign Toolkit: https://ecyehpennsylvania.center-school.org/pennsylvania-ecyeh-awareness-week/ 

State College Area School District Family and Communi