Dear Greater Johnstown Families,
As we continue to navigate uncertain times, I want to take a moment to reach out with both understanding and reassurance. News surrounding the anticipated suspension of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) food benefits as of November 1 has caused understandable concern for many families in our community. Please know that you are not alone in feeling this uncertainty—and that our District is here to support you.
We believe that supporting our students means supporting their families as well. When basic needs are met, children can learn, grow, and thrive. That is why we are committed to connecting you with the many resources available through our schools and community partners. As a District, we are here to make sure every student—and every family—feels cared for and supported.
Below, you will find a list of Johnstown-specific programs available to GJSD families who may need a little extra help right now, as well as community resources that can offer additional support during this time.
Whether it is a meal, holiday assistance, or a listening ear, please do not hesitate to reach out to your School Principal and/or School Counselor.
Sincerely,
Ms. Alicia D. Koster
GJSD Superintendent of Schools
Students Eat Free Breakfast and Lunch at School
As you may already know, students at the Greater Johnstown School District eat FREE breakfast and lunch on school days because our District qualifies for the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) based on the economic demographics of our families. This program provides tremendous peace of mind, ensuring that—especially in these challenging times—our students can count on nutritious meals every day they attend school.
At this time, there is no indication that the government shutdown will impact this resource. However, we understand that circumstances can change quickly, and we will continue to monitor the situation closely.
BackPack Program
For the past decade, families of Greater Johnstown School District (GJSD) students have benefited from the BackPack Program, which provides backpacks filled with food every Friday during the school year. Each backpack contains enough supplemental food to help sustain families through the weekend, when children are not in school.
GJSD teachers facilitate the program, partnering with the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York to distribute food and coordinate directly with Johnstown families.
Members of the Johnstown Teachers Association (JTA) have the option to contribute to the program through voluntary paycheck deductions. Members of the public who wish to support the program may also make a monetary donation to the Regional Food Bank, with a note designating the funds for Johnstown’s BackPack Program.
Holiday Helpline
The holidays are just around the corner and we realize that this may bring an additional layer of stress to our families. The District’s “Holiday Helpline” is available to any child in the Greater Johnstown School District who is in need during this holiday season, with preference given to families who already receive public benefits. Families were sent a form to fill out and return by November 14 to request family assistance through the program. Families will be matched with “Holiday Helpline Heroes” in time for the holidays. Wishlists are filled out by families and fulfilled by Holiday Helpline Heroes. Wrapped packages are delivered to the District office and families are able to pick up the gifts prior to the holiday.
If you have any questions, or need assistance filling out the form that went to all families on ParentSquare, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at: holidayhelpline@johnstownschools.org
Making Mental Health a Priority for YOU & Your Student
These are stressful times for everyone, and it’s natural for your household to feel overwhelmed. Children often sense and absorb that stress, even when we do not realize it. A calm, supported home helps create happy, resilient children.
Please remember—you are not alone. Your Greater Johnstown School District family is here to listen, help, and support both you and your student in any way we can.
Our Social, Emotional, Academic Learning (SEAL) Team—composed of social workers, behavior specialists, counselors, and psychologists—works with students every day to support their well-being in the school setting. If you or your child need additional support or resources, please do not hesitate to reach out to a SEAL team member in your child’s building. They can connect you with a community liaison who specializes in the specific assistance you may need. The SEAL team is here to support the whole student, which includes YOU.
Helpful Community & NYS Resources:
NYS’s Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA):
OTDA’s Resources for Working Families
Field & Fork Network/Double Up Food Bucks – Using SNAP Benefits for Fresh Produce
Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York: Use the agency locator to find free food distribution sites in Fulton County.
Call 2-1-1 or visit 211neny.org to connect with food, housing, and other support services across the Capital Region.
Food Pantries & Meal Sites in Fulton County:
