Dear Tecumseh Families,

As both the Superintendent of Tecumseh Local Schools and one of the advisors for the Arrow Service Club at Tecumseh High School, I would like to share that our students are stepping up to serve others.

Due to the ongoing federal government shutdown, families who rely on SNAP/EBT food benefits may not receive their assistance for the month of November. Many of these families are our neighbors and some are parents of the very students we see in our classrooms each day. In true Arrow spirit, our students want to help bridge that gap and ensure no one in our community goes without food.  

The Arrow Service Club will be collecting nonperishable food items at all Tecumseh school buildings from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. each day. In addition, we’ll host a weekend drop-off opportunity the weekend of November 8th, with more details to come later this week. All food collected will be donated to Bethel Churches United Food Pantry, which serves families right here in our local area.

My understanding is that Governor DeWine may offer some type of assistance. If this happens, there may still be a gap in services for many of our families. Of course, any extra food to the local food pantry is always a good thing!

This effort is rooted in kindness and compassion; neighbors helping neighbors. Our students are showing tremendous empathy and leadership, and we’re proud to support their desire to make a difference.

I understand that people may hold differing opinions about government programs such as food assistance. But this food drive isn’t about politics or policy, it’s about people. If you don’t wish to participate, that’s okay. For those who do, thank you for standing beside our students as they learn the power of service and community.

Thank you for always supporting our kids and for being part of what makes Tecumseh Local such a caring district.

Sincerely,

Paula Crew