Cheektowaga, NY (WBEN) The Teachers Association of Cheektowaga-Sloan are teaming up with the Teamsters for a ribbon cutting Saturday to launch a new food pantry.
The teachers launched the effort as they say they see food insecurity daily in the classroom.
The pantry is located at Teamster Local #449's headquarters at 2175 William Street, Cheektowaga, in the heart of the district.
"Helping out in the community is union work," said Amy Kochan, an earth science teacher and president of the Teachers' Association of Cheektowaga-Sloan (TAC). "Teachers and local unions, like TAC and the Teamsters, care about students and the families who live here. We all know that our public schools unite us. They are the center of our community. So, when a part of our community is struggling, we all feel an obligation to step up and try to meet the need."
Kochan said Cheektowaga-Sloan teachers have been collecting non-perishable food, personal care items and household items.
Teachers from all grade levels, members of Teamsters Local #449, student volunteers and retired teachers will work together to keep the pantry open seven days a week.
The local unions are engaging members to keep the donations coming in and are strongly encouraging participation from others in the community. In addition, American Legion Post 1320 donated $500 for food to help get the project off the ground.
The ribbon cutting is set for 10am Saturday.
