In a story that aired on KWTV earlier this week, we learned that athletes from Putnam City West Patriots football team not only have to worry about how they are going to win a football game, often they also wonder where they will get their next meal.  More than 85 percent of the student body at the school is signed up for free and reduced meal plans, which ensures them they will at least get breakfast and lunch during the school year, but if there is no food at home they often wonder how they will be able to eat dinner. 

Recently, the coaching staff set up a food pantry for the athletes in the PC West locker room, but were struggling to keep food on the shelves.  After hearing of the problem, members of a Sunday school class at Church of the Servant made it their mission to ensure the kids have beans, canned vegetables and dry milk.  Now the players can come in and grab food to eat after practice in the evening.  

It is a welcome change for Sharie Ainsworth, PC West school trainer.  She saw 19 broken bones from last year's 57-player roster.  This year, she says, "The kids look stronger, they're looking better."

For those interested in making a donation to Putnam City West, checks can be mailed directly to the school at Putnam City West, 8500 NW 23rd Street, Oklahoma City, OK  73127.  Donations can also be made through the Putnam City Foundation. https://app.etapestry.com/hosted/PutnamCityPublicSchoolsFou_1/OnlineDonation.html (100% of the proceeds will be sent to the school)

For information about programs supported by the Putnam City Foundation, please visit our website at http://www.pcf4kids.org

To see the story that aired on KWTV, please cut and paste the following website to your internet: http://www.okblitz.com/Article.aspx?id=24775