When we say “More Than Food,” we mean it.
For 50 years, the Dublin Food Pantry has been the place neighbors turn in times of uncertainty. We provide food, hygiene products, and essential resources to families experiencing food insecurity; but what they leave with is more than groceries. They leave with dignity. Stability. And the reassurance that their community sees them.
Because food is never just food.
For the 3,482 children we served last year, it’s the energy to participate in after-school sports. The focus to work through a math lesson. The steadiness to move confidently from one class to the next. Hunger impacts far more than an empty stomach, it affects learning, mental well-being, and development.
That’s why our partnership with our Dublin school district is so critical. As Dr. Jen Schwanke, Deputy Superintendent at Dublin City Schools reminds us, nutritious food is quite simply “what sustains a life.”
What Hunger Looks Like in the Classroom
In Dublin, about 23 percent of students are considered economically disadvantaged, and in some schools, that number climbs as high as 70 percent. But those numbers don’t point to one neighborhood or one type of family. Food insecurity affects families across all cultures, backgrounds, and socioeconomic levels.
Today, there is no “typical” pantry client. Food insecurity is fluid and often invisible. It affects families across every neighborhood and background. A job transition. An unexpected medical bill. Rising housing or grocery costs. The need can appear quickly — and quietly.
As Tyler Wolfe, Director of Student Wellness at Dublin City Schools, said plainly, “It can be anyone.”
In Tyler’s role, he oversees all mental health programming for Dublin City Schools, working closely with elementary and mental health counselors. Together, they watch out for indications a child might be struggling with food insecurity.
“Our counselors are often the first to notice signs of hunger in our students,” shared Tyler. “A lot of times, this looks like devouring or hoarding food.”
And while school staff are attentive, they are equally committed to protecting dignity. Many families don’t want others to know they’re struggling to put food on the table.
“We never make a child feel like we know they need food,” explained Jen. “But through our close partnership with Dublin Food Pantry, families can be connected to resources discreetly and respectfully.”
Part of Tyler’s role is serving as a liaison between the schools and the Pantry, helping ensure that when a need is identified, support is made available to families quickly, quietly, and without stigma. And all of this becomes especially important during school breaks.
It’s More Than Food, It’s Dignity During School Breaks
During the school year, many students rely on meals provided at school. But hunger doesn’t pause when school does. When spring break arrives in a few weeks, it will create real strain on some families in our community.
We want families to know we are here:
- During the school year
- During spring break
- During summer
- During moments of crisis or transition
It’s More Than Food, It’s A Stronger Education
While not all of us have experienced food insecurity, we do know the effects of hunger. It makes us irritable, weak, and unable to focus. And for students, that might translate to shorter attention spans, decreased athletic performance, and even behavioral issues.
When children have access to dependable, healthy food, they get the fuel they need to concentrate in class, participate confidently, and grow academically and socially.
It’s More Than Food, It’s A Healthier School District
Feeding children is a critical part of our mission. But we also work closely with our community to ensure the food we provide supports the healthy development of growing minds and bodies.
“Getting kids access to fresh, nutritious food is tremendously important,” Tyler explained. “Just because someone can’t afford food doesn’t mean they deserve bad food.”
Because of partnerships with local retailers, our sustainability garden, and generous donors, the Pantry offers fresh produce and nourishing options alongside pantry staples.
“A child’s development is very much dependent on things like proteins, fresh vegetables, and fresh milk,” explained Jen. “We need healthy, nutritious, consistent, dependable sources of nutritious food for our kids.”
That’s what More Than Food means. It’s not just about filling a plate, it’s about helping a child grow, focus, and feel steady enough to learn. With every meal we provide, we’re investing in the future of Dublin’s children.
Learn how you can make More Than Food possible for kids in our community »