For millions of hungry families across the country, relying on food pantries often means giving up control of their meal plans. While gratefully accepting donated groceries, people experiencing food insecurity often miss out on the flavorful meals many of us take for granted.
That’s because while generous donors and government agencies provide basic food groups, one thing that transforms basic staples into enjoyable, satisfying meals is often missing: seasonings and condiments.
Faith Centre Food Bank in Bellefonte, Pennsylvania was no exception to this rule—until a small group of 9th and 10th graders got involved. “Spices and condiments are what make food great,” they reflected. “Every family should be able to have them.”
So, determined to make a difference and calling themselves “The Spice Squad,” the teens hatched a creative plan that went beyond the basics.
Instead of traditional fundraising, they teamed up with a local restaurant to cook up something special: Community members who donated seasonings to the students’ food drive would receive a discount on their meal!
The Spice Squad leveraged their social media skills to spread the word, along with a tried-and-tested marketing strategy: talking about the plan to anyone who’d listen. For a week, at the teens’ invitation, community members came together in a fun and meaningful way while supporting their neighbors in need.
And the results were deliciously successful. The fundraiser saw an outpouring of generosity, garnering 109 spice and 73 condiment donations.
Families served by the Faith Centre Food Bank will now enjoy a greater variety of flavors and meals that go beyond the basics. And student leaders learned an important lesson: Teamwork is always worth it.
One student reflected, “I’m happy and grateful to know that we have made a positive impact on others’ lives, with something as simple as making their food taste better.”
At Lead4Change, we believe students are powerful problem-solvers. That’s why our free leadership curriculum is designed to help teens work together, identify real needs in their communities, and take action.
The Spice Squad is a perfect example:
They saw a gap. They built a plan. And together, they made a meaningful difference.
Want to help your students lead change like this?
Explore our free curriculum and start your journey with Lead4Change today.