BMS Student Council, Bright Futures Berryville team up to support local families

The Berryville Middle School Student Council and Bright Futures Berryville recently joined forces to make a meaningful impact for families in need across the community.

As part of its ongoing commitment to service, the Berryville Middle School Student Council organized a food drive to help support local families experiencing food insecurity. During the drive, Mindy Hicks, coordinator for Bright Futures Berryville, and Kayla Sargent, BMS Student Council Sponsor, met to explore a partnership opportunity that would expand the reach of the students’ efforts.

Hicks had recently secured a $975 grant from the Arkansas Hunger Relief Alliance, made possible through a nomination by State Rep. James Eaton. By combining the food collected by the Student Council with the grant funds and additional McKinney-Vento funding, the partnership was able to significantly increase the level of support provided.

Together, these resources were used to assemble and distribute grocery boxes for 50 families. Each box included food items along with essential hygiene and cleaning supplies, helping to meet immediate household needs and provide relief during a challenging time.

“This collaboration is a great example of how students, schools, and community partners can work together to make a difference,” Hicks said. “The leadership shown by our middle school students truly helped extend the impact of this support.” Sargent added: “This project wasn’t just about food, it was about reminding others that they are seen, supported, and valued. I’m so proud of these kids for stepping up and serving others.”

The effort highlights the power of community partnerships and student leadership in addressing local needs and ensuring families have access to essential resources.