GCPS CARES Corner Opens to Support Students and Families

GCPS CARES Corner Opens to Support Students and Families

Granville County Public Schools celebrated the opening of the GCPS CARES Corner with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday, August 26.

The CARES Corner was created to help remove barriers that can affect a student’s ability to succeed in school by providing access to clothing, personal care items, school supplies, and household necessities. The goal is simple: help students feel supported, confident, and ready to learn.

The idea was developed by GCPS school social workers Christy Currin, Sara Michaelson, Katie Perkinson, and Sandra Williams. The first CARES Corner is located at J.F. Webb High School, but it serves families across the district. Families may visit the location directly, or school social workers can gather needed items and deliver them. A second location will soon open at Phoenix Academy in Creedmoor to better serve families in the southern part of the county.

So far, the CARES Corner has assisted 68 individuals, including 47 in August alone.

“The CARES project is about more than just providing kids with clothes and hygiene supplies,” said GCPS school social worker Sara Michaelson. “It’s about providing them with the confidence and items needed to succeed in school.”

Social workers have already seen the difference the program can make. In one case, a family received clothing and shoes the same day they were requested. In another, a young student received a special pair of unicorn rain boots that she proudly wore to school.

“These moments remind us that the CARES Corner is about more than providing basic necessities,” said Katie Perkinson. “It is about how a child feels, helping a parent breathe a little easier, and reminding families that they have a community that cares.”

Community donations will be important as the program grows. Current needs include toiletries, new shoes, socks, clothing, undergarments, coats, laundry detergent, household cleaners, towels, and washcloths. GCPS will also share monthly collection needs on its Facebook page.

Those interested in donating may contact any GCPS school or the district office.

The CARES Corner is another example of what can happen when schools, families, and communities work together to support students. Small acts of help can make a meaningful difference in helping a child feel ready to learn.