BYRON – In an inspiring show of compassion and community spirit, the second-grade students at Mary Morgan Elementary School recently led a successful food drive, collecting and delivering hundreds of non-perishable food items to the Byron Schools Food Pantry.
Guided by their dedicated teachers in March and April — Annie Burke, Becky Hull, Rebecca King, Joslynn Lindsey, and Ashley Stickler — the students embraced the opportunity to support local families in need. Their efforts not only brought in an extraordinary number of donations but also reflected the power of kindness and generosity, even from the youngest members of the community.
When the students delivered their donations, they were welcomed by Caryn Hoover, one of the pantry’s co-founders. Hoover gave the students a tour of the food pantry and spoke with them about the needs many families in the community face. Her thoughtful explanation helped the children understand how their donations would directly support fellow students and families experiencing food insecurity.
The Byron Schools Food Pantry, founded in 2017 by Nikki Yerly, Susan Freyer, and Hoover established to assist students and families within the district. Today, the pantry serves 10 to 15 local families each week, providing groceries and vouchers for perishable items. Additionally, it supplies 100 to 150 snacks and breakfast items to children across all three Byron schools every week.
“These food drives and donations are more than just collecting cans and boxes,” said Freyer. “It is a chance for our students to learn about empathy, service, and the difference they can make in the lives of others. We are so thankful that the second-grade team embraced this philosophy and filled our shelves in the process.”
The pantry is powered entirely by community generosity. In addition to organized drives like the one held by the second graders, community members regularly mail or drop off donations of non-perishable food, money, and personal hygiene products—contributions that are essential to meeting the ongoing needs of families.
“Just this week a United Church of Byron dropped off more donations of food and cash to help get us through the last few weeks of school. It is surprising how quickly our shelves empty again, so we are always grateful for these surprise donations.” Said Nikki Yerly.
Yerly, Freyer, and Hoover continue to dedicate their time to assembling grocery bags, distributing vouchers, and delivering supplies to families.
“This kind of support from our students, staff, and neighbors is what keeps the pantry going,” said Caryn Hoover. “It’s not just about food—it’s about making sure our families feel supported and cared for.”
Those interested in supporting the Byron Schools Food Pantry can send donations to: Byron Schools Food Pantry, 696 N. Colfax St., Byron, IL 61010
