In April, Caring for America hosted Judy Stencel, the Special Populations Coordinator for the Prescott Unified School District (PUSD) at the luncheon. Judy oversees the administration of grants that support our Native American student population and the Education for Homeless Children and Youth (EHCY) program. Judy ensures the immediate enrollment of students experiencing homelessness—defined as lacking a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence—and works to remove barriers to their academic success. This includes coordinating access to essential resources and food programs. 

Her role includes managing the Family Resource Center at Prescott High School, which provides critical support not only to EHCY students but to any families within the district facing economic hardship. Through strong partnerships with community organizations, they can offer a wide range of resources, including school supplies, clothing, shoes, personal hygiene items, blankets, and books. Participation has increased from approximately 85 students in 2023 to 170 students served in 2025, reflecting the expanding needs of our community and the success of our outreach efforts.

RWOP will be sponsoring food /essential items donations drive at the May luncheon for food and essentials items. The food items are for supplementing weekend food packages. We will split the collection between the two school districts: Prescott and Chino Valley.

ITEMS NEEDED for PUSD & Chino Valley Education Foundation “Hungry Kids Project”:

Food (easily opened items): Spaghetti or other pasta, Cans of Spaghetti sauce, Peanut butter, Jelly in plastic or squeeze bottles, Granola Bars, Cereal, Canned meat (especially chicken),Canned Pasta (SpaghettiOs, Ravioli), Chicken Noodle Soup, Macaroni & Cheese, Pop Tarts, Instant Oatmeal, Packets of Applesauce, Individual packs of canned fruit, Jello & Pudding, Meat Sticks, Pancake Mix and Syrups, Crackers of any kind, Cheese & crackers, Peanut butter & crackers, Canned chilli, Small packs of cookies, chips & snacks, Bottled water, Bottled sports drinks (Gatorade, etc.)

New Hygiene Products: Deodorant (men and women), Full size shampoo, Full size conditioner, Full size lotion, Fingernail clippers, Hairbrushes (not combs) Bar soap (any kind), Washcloths, Lip Balm (Chaptick etc.), Small packs Q tips, Baid aids, Tissues, 4 packs of toilet paper, Toothpaste & Individually wrapped toothbrushes, Hotel soaps, shampoos, etc.

Other: Small bottles/ containers of laundry soap, Sanitizing surface wipes, New underwear any size, New or gently used jeans, Shirts appropriate for teens & kids, New or gently used books for kids & teens, Used sneakers regardless of condition

IF YOU CANNOT BRING YOUR DONATIONS TO THE MAY LUNCHEON, CONTACT JODY AT 808-347-3174 TO ARRANGE FOR A PICKUP.