Back to School in Gillette

As kids across Gillette gear up for a new school year, many families are quietly struggling to cover the basics. From school clothes to after-school snacks, the costs add up quickly. For hundreds of local children, even stable housing is out of reach.

At the Council of Community Services, we’ve seen a noticeable increase in children accessing our services, especially at the food pantry and Soup Kitchen. This isn’t just a seasonal shift. It’s a reflection of a deeper need in our community.

Hunger Doesn’t Take a Summer Break

As school begins, many children are still visiting the pantry with their families or stopping in for a hot meal. We’ve seen growing demand for kid-friendly, shelf-stable snacks like granola bars, crackers, fruit cups, and applesauce. Donations of these items go straight to families with school-aged children and can make a real difference in a child’s day.

Clothing with Dignity

Back-to-school shopping isn’t possible for every family. At Seconds on the Avenue, our thrift store in downtown Gillette, families can find affordable clothing for students of all ages. Whether it’s a warm hoodie, a new pair of shoes, or a backpack, your donations and purchases support not only the Council but also the neighbors who rely on us.

The Hidden Faces of Homelessness

According to the most recent numbers from Campbell County School District, 271 students have been identified as experiencing homelessness. This includes children who are couch surfing, doubled up with relatives, or living in unstable housing situations.

Many of these kids will still show up on the first day of school with a smile, but their challenges are very real. While the Council works closely with some of these families through our housing and shelter programs, many others fall outside the services we currently provide.

How You Can Help:

• Donate kid-friendly snacks to our food pantry

• Shop or donate to Seconds on the Avenue

• Support our housing and shelter programs through financial contributions

• Share this blog to help raise awareness

  
  

This back-to-school season, your support can help ensure every child in Gillette is met with compassion and dignity. Whether they are walking through our doors or sitting beside your own children in class, they deserve the chance to start the year strong.