The Hillcrest Free Market is a small space inside the school that was established in 2017 to provide for students in need.
They give out food, clothes, school supplies, hygiene products and also provide laundry and showers facilities. They also give out food bags to take home and parents can also come in but they will need to schedule an appointment.
The free market is open Monday through Friday during school hours it only closes during APP. Elizabeth Demke, Teen Center Facilitator, says, “The pantry is for everyone,we don’t ask any questions to anyone who comes in for any kind of help.”
Students can go there if they need help with anything. The doors are always open and Liz is always ready to help each student whether a student needs to talk or share something,or just wants to grab a snack or just needs a pencil.
Donations are a major reason that the pantry stays stocked.She says “we love donations,our students love, love, love Cup of Noodle soups and spaghetti noodles” They also give away hundreds of granola bars every day when students ask for snacks.Anybody who is willing to help students and make a difference in the community can come and donate.