HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Faris Elementary School is proud to announce the launch of Snack & Succeed, an initiative designed to combat student hunger, strengthen academic success, and promote leadership among students. The program officially opened with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Thursday, February 19, marking the beginning of a partnership-driven effort to ensure Faris students have the nutrition they need to thrive throughout the school day.
Snack & Succeed was made possible through generous support from Heartland Credit Union and a Community Development Grant from the Cornerstone Foundation, a division of the Cornerstone League. The Cornerstone Foundation is dedicated to helping credit unions make meaningful impacts in the communities they serve. Hunger is one of the 12 Development Issues identified by the National Credit Union Foundation as a barrier to economic stability and wellbeing—an issue Snack & Succeed aims to address directly.
“Food insecurity has a real impact on a child’s ability to learn, focus, and participate,” said Heartland President and CEO, Dan Springer. “We’re honored to help support a meaningful solution for the students and staff at Faris. As a credit union, our commitment extends beyond the financial success of our members. We strive to strengthen the well‑being of the entire community.”
At the heart of the program is a schoolwide Snack Cabinet, stocked with healthy, accessible snacks for students who need them during the day. Teachers will also receive classroom bins to help distribute snacks easily and discreetly—an important support, as many Faris teachers were previously spending personal funds each month to keep their students fed.
“We are incredibly grateful for our partnership with Heartland Credit Union and the dedicated, behind the scenes support provided to our students and staff,” said Jamie Tilton, Faris Elementary Principal. “The Snack & Succeed program plays a vital role in supporting our teachers and ensuring that students’ basic needs are met, allowing them to stay focused, engaged, and ready to learn. We are excited about the future of this program and the meaningful impact it will continue to have on student leadership, growth, and success.”
A unique and empowering feature of Snack & Succeed is the Snack Squad, a team of sixth grade students who run the school’s weekly snack cart. The Snack Squad is responsible for delivering snacks to classrooms, managing inventory, and serving their peers. This leadership opportunity aligns with Faris Elementary’s identity as a Leader in Me school, strengthening students’ confidence, responsibility, and sense of belonging.
While Heartland Credit Union’s donation will fund the program for approximately its first year, ongoing support will be essential to keeping Snack & Succeed thriving. Local businesses, organizations, and community members are invited to contribute to the program’s future.
If you or your organization would like to help support Snack & Succeed, please contact: Heather Sazama, Faris Elementary School at 620.615.5000 or [email protected]
